What Will Bars and Pubs be Like When They Reopen?

There are over 62,000 pubs, bars, inns and taverns in America, and the majority of them have been closed where there have been restrictions and lockdowns in place. As the country gradually opens back up though, the operating practices of bars will be noticeably different. It will probably be quite a while before drinking establishments go back to being packed out with people trying to get a drink from the bar. There are likely to still be social distancing measures in place, and the process of ordering food and drinks will be different to ensure that it is contact-free. These changes, however, will mean that the bars and pubs that you love can operate safely, and most importantly – you can still drink beer! 

Seating Arrangements

In order to keep households and friendship bubbles separate, it is likely that customers will remain seated at their own table until restrictions are eased entirely. Food and drinks will be ordered at the table and then brought to you by staff. You may find that Perspex partitions have been put up in- between booths and tables for the safety of customers. Where possible, many bars and pubs have opened up more outside space for customers to enjoy a beer, rather than being confined in a smaller space indoors. Open air drinking areas are often fitted with heaters, so you won’t get cold as the night draws in. 

Ordering your drinks

Many pubs and bars are embracing mobile ordering systems to cut down the need for contact between staff and customers. There are big advantages for bars to use a mobile ordering system for drinks too. The bar can manage orders quickly and easily and also simplify payments for customers. Staff can then prepare the order and bring it to your table. You, as the customer, will then get your drinks faster than you would have if you’ve queued up at the bar. Any system that makes the beer arrive quicker is all good! The menus on a mobile ordering system can also include beer specials, coupons and offers, which will be advantageous for everyone. 

Takeout drinks

Takeaway food is commonplace for restaurants, but in an effort to expand business, many bars and pubs are taking the option of offering customers takeout drinks. This is great news for the discerning beer drinker, because it means that you can take your favorite craft and artisan beers home to enjoy from the comfort of your sofa. To-go beers are easily transported in cardboard cartons, and won’t lose their fizz if they are drunk the same day you bought them. You can even take out some of your favorite bar snacks to consume with your beer and recreate a night out at home.

Bars and pubs in America have had to adapt quickly in order to stay open and thrive. As national restrictions are lifted, a night out at the bar may feel slightly different, but don’t worry: there will still be beer.