Chicago bars and restaurants can stay open until 1 a.m., boost capacity to 50%, Lightfoot announces
Chicago will allow bars and restaurants to boost indoor capacity to 50% and remain open until 1 a.m. in the latest move from Mayor Lori Lightfoot to ease COVID-19 restrictions and help businesses.
The indoor dining limit, which takes effect immediately, will now be 50% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer. Lightfoot also will allow liquor stores to sell alcohol until 11 p.m. and boost the number of people allowed at indoor fitness classes to 20, the city said.
“Because people are still adhering to the public health guidance, it makes all the difference in the world,” Lightfoot said in a news conference announcing the changes. “Thanks to your efforts, we are one step closer to putting this pandemic in our rearview mirror.”
Bars that want to serve alcohol indoors must either serve food or partner with a restaurant or business that provides food to its patrons. Tables are capped at six customers for both indoor and outdoor dining and must be spread out with 6 feet of distance between parties. Diners must keep masks on except when eating or drinking.
Read more: https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-chicago-coronavirus-restaurants-bars-fitness-restrictions-20210302-pcgu6fa2zjayzcyvphqagyhhhe-story.html