NASHVILLE, Tenn (WTVF) — Phase 1 of Nashville's reopening plan includes restaurants, which can open their seating areas to the public at half capacity as long as they follow the health guidelines.
However, not every restaurant in the Music City is ready to open its dining area to the public.
Chad Head is chef and owner of Chago's Cantina. He says he respects the decisions of state and local leaders; he says unfortunately with being a smaller restaurant it will be hard to make sure everyone is social distancing.
"This is a very small restaurant as it is, so I would have about nine tables if opened today," said Head.
Like many others, Heads says he would love to open his restaurant, but it's not financially in his favor.
"For the health and well-being of our staff and our guests, I don’t think it’s a good decision here," said Head.
Chago's Cantina had to lay-off more than 95% of it staff and Head says they're getting by with To-Go orders.
"Until we’re real sure and our leaders are real sure, then I think it’s safe to say that we’re going to be closed for another week, or two, or three," said Head.
Chago's Cantina isn't the restaurant sitting this phase out. Hatrone, E3 Chophouse and Frothy Monkey told NewsChannel 5 Monday their dine-in areas will remain closed.
Frothy Monkey released the following statement on their decision:
"I'm not sure that anyone will be available for a live interview today but I can tell you that the reason we are not opening today is just that we are simply not ready. Our goal is to invest our resources in sustainable practices as we add staff and begin the process of reopening fully and there is not an exact timeline."
