As the pandemic spreads around the world, here in Atlanta local businesses have closed after Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms ordered all bars, nightclubs, gyms, movie theaters, live performance venues and arcades to close Thursday to prevent the possible spread of infections.
“This decision was not made lightly,” said Mayor Bottoms. “Due to the rising number of COVID-19 infections, something must be done to slow the spread and risk of exposure to those most vulnerable to the virus.”
Mayor Bottoms already limited occupancy of restaurants, bars, gyms, cinemas, and clubs to no more than 50 people earlier in the week.
Venues like Heretic Atlanta, Blakes on the Park, and TEN Atlanta have closed indefinitely as an added precaution, but some businesses are offering carry-out where you can purchase alcohol with your to-go order.
LA Fitness, one of Atlanta’s biggest gym chains closed its doors until April 1 in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Theatres around the metro including Serenbe Playhouse and Stage Door Players sent out emails to patrons regarding their upcoming schedules. They’ve postponed productions but still plan to have those productions play in the near future.
Businesses like City Winery have made the decision to close their doors. In an email to its patrons, the business states “while we can’t put on shows or serve food to you, we are still making wine, produced locally.” That wine is still up for sale according to City Winery, They tell patrons new options will be in place for customers to order wine from the store including new home delivery.
Roxx announced it would stay open with patio dining, carry-out for customers along with offering the sale of alcohol with to-go orders. In an email to patrons, Roxx says, “We love you and our other guests. ROXX is being extremely precaution and vigilant during these times. We are constantly cleaning, sanitizing and practicing social distancing. Your safety and well-being has always been a top priority at ROXX, and always will be.”
The Colonnade along with Twisted Soul and other restaurants have closed but some are looking to still feed customers. Those plans have still not been announced. Metrotainment Cafes is open for business according to an email sent to customers. They plan to utilize outdoor space in order to create more personal space and are capping capacity at 50 guests at all times. They’re also urging customers to order takeout/delivery with a free cookiue with order. Wahoo! Grill has suspended dine-in service and will begin offering daily curbside takeout as well as delivery.
Georgia Voice will update our readers as we learn more about local businesses and their plans during this COVID-19 outbreak.