ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- After weeks of shutdown because of the coronavirus pandemic, several St. Petersburg businesses reopened Monday morning.
“We’re excited to have the opportunity to get back to work, said Steve Westphal.
Westphal owns 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House. After a long six weeks with the doors closed, he and his employees got up early to start their reopening process.
“We will do everything we can to ensure that safety of our customers and staff,” he said.
They have removed all salt and pepper shakers, and cloth napkins from the tables. They are available for customers who ask for them.
The restaurant is also switching to paper menus.
“We put thought into every part of the contact process.”
All employees are required to wear masks at all times. Most of the restaurants have put extra seating outside, because of the 25% occupancy limit.
Clothing stores, like Sartorial Inc., are also taking safety precautions.
“We sanitized the entire place, and make sure we put a policy in place that is consistent with COVID-19,” said owner Jose Martinez.
Other changes: Clothes that customers try on, but don’t buy, will be steamed after every use. They register and credit card pad will be sanitized after every customers.
This is phase one of Governor Ron Desantis’ plan to re-open the state. Businesses like hair and nail salons, barbershops, gyms and personal service businesses are not allowed to re-open yet.
