Guidelines for Outdoor Dining
On May 24, Governor J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) released guidelines for the reopening of outdoor dining across the state during Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan. Click here to read the full announcement. Visit the Northalsted COVID-19 Resources page for information on other industries.
The document specifies:
-
- the eating and drinking establishments who may operate in this capacity
- party size limitations
- operational procedures for seating
- menus and service standards
- recommended health and safety measures to protect public well-being
Therefore, for the purposes of these guidelines, a dining or drinking area is considered as such if the area meets any of the following criteria:
- Located on the rooftop of a building or within establishment with retractable roof (should remain open during hours of operation of outdoor dining and/or drinking); or
- Outdoor space connected to or located on the site of a restaurant, grocery store, health or fitness center, hotel, golf club, or other social club with a food establishment license; or
- Indoor space where 50% or more of a wall can be removed via the opening of windows, doors, or panels provided that dining tables are within 8-ft from such opening; or
- Any other outdoor dining and drinking areas authorized by local governments provided that food and drinks are prepared by licensed food or liquor establishments and that proper social distancing of 6-ft between designated customer tables and/or other seating areas is observed and parties are of 6 persons or fewer
Note that operators must also look to their local municipalities and health departments for further guidance. The city of Chicago’s guidance has not been released.
Illinois Phase 3 Reopening Toolkit for Restaurants and Bars
ServSafe Free Training Videos
For restaurants handling challenges due to COVID-19, ServSafe has developed free training videos and made their online programs free to use. These are designed to assist operators in training their staff in appropriate hygiene, sanitation, and operational strategies.
-
- Takeout: ServSafe Takeout: COVID-19 Precautions (English & Spanish)
- Delivery: ServSafe Delivery: COVID-19 Precautions (English & Spanish)
- ServSafe Reopening Guidance: COVID-19 Precautions (English & Spanish)
- Food Handler Training (available free of charge until May 31, 2020)
IRA PPE & Reopening Resource Guide
The IRA has launched a premier resource base of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and reopening services for restaurants.
Click here to join the IRA’s reopening resource page. However, businesses must be current IRA Associate members in order to be featured. Contact Emilee Lyons for more information on listing your company.
