NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Starting Monday night, bars and restaurants in Nashville can stay open one hour later – until midnight.
During last week’s COVID-19 update, Mayor John Cooper announced that Metro would update its public health protocols, citing the city's improving COVID metrics. Cooper called it a "small step towards normalcy."
In addition to the new closing time, patrons will now be able to enter bars and restaurants until 11 p.m. instead of 10 p.m. Restaurants that do not serve alcohol can also resume regular hours of operation, up to 24 hours a day, on Monday.
Capacity rules will stay the same, and customers must continue to social distance and wear masks.
Starting today, all restaurants and bars serving alcohol must close at midnight. Restaurants that don’t sell alcohol may stay open 24 hours. The allowable number of attendees at K-12 sporting events is increased to two attendees per participant. pic.twitter.com/35fk31SHDk
— Mayor John Cooper (@JohnCooper4Nash) February 1, 2021
While it may sound like a small change, some bar owners said it would make a big difference as they try and rebound from the impact of the pandemic.
"It's very difficult to see your restaurant full at 11 p.m. and having to tell everyone to leave," said Victoria Piller, the Owner of Neighbors in Sylvan Park. "I feel like this means we are going to back to some sort of normalcy."
Piller said safety will continue to be a top priority. All tables in the bar are spaced 6 feet apart to allow for social distancing, and hand sanitizer is placed on every table.
"Every little bit helps," said Piller. "Hopefully, this means we are headed in the right direction."
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
