As restaurants start to open up, you may be considering supporting a local business by dining out. Just remember, when you visit your favourite restaurant or cafe, the experience may be different from what you are used to, with the pandemic accelerating the worlds progress to a cashless society.
Depending on where you live, you may notice new rules and restrictions. While you will still get the same delicious food and excellent customer service as before, there will be a few COVID-safe policies to keep an eye out for.
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Mask Wearing for Everyone
When you dine out during the pandemic, you can expect to see chefs, servers and managers all wearing masks. You will be asked to wear a mask when entering the restaurant, but you will be able to take it off while eating and drinking.
If you’re looking for a high-quality mask to wear, N95 face masks from Green Supply are a good choice, as they give you over 95 percent filtration and have multiple layers. With all the protection you need in a public space, you can keep your family safe by wearing well-fitted, contoured masks when dining out.
Staying Apart With Social Distancing
The restaurant may not be as full as you are used to. You should book a table ahead of time because most premises will have limited seating. You may even be asked to leave after a certain amount of time, for example, two-hour booking windows are common.
To avoid close contact, the restaurant may offer table service or takeaway. There could be screens separating customers from the register, and measured lines directing you where to stand. And, more businesses are encouraging cashless payments, so bring your card with you.
Movement Tracking With QR Codes
Restaurants and cafes are embracing QR codes as a convenient way to store your details. By signing in on entry, you will be contacted if an outbreak of COVID-19 is connected with the premises.
A QR code can be scanned with the camera on your smartphone, and you will be directed to a form to submit your name and contact information. If you prefer, you can avoid the technology and write your details on a piece of paper. It may be tempting to leave a false identity, but if you do need to be contacted, you could miss out on a vital phone call.
Sanitize, Wash and Spray
You can expect the tables to be sprayed and wiped with disinfectant between customers. Hygiene will be a priority, and you may notice hand sanitizer located near any entrances or exits.
Depending on where you live, gloves may be optional in the kitchen. They can make it difficult to cook, and regular handwashing will usually be enough. However, servers and cashiers may be required to wear disposable gloves.
Ready to Dine Out?
Why not take the night off from cooking and support your local restaurant? If you are ready to dine out, make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Most restaurants and cafes will be focusing on COVID-safe dining with mask-wearing a condition of entry. Social distancing will be the norm, and you may be asked to pay by bank card or limit your time spent in-store. Expect to sign in with a free QR code, and you may notice increased hygiene and hand sanitizer throughout the restaurant.
