Philadelphia Has New Restrictions On Indoor & Outdoor Dining

Philly’s dining rooms will close while outdoor dining will be limited as part of a new citywide mandate effective November 20th.

Carlo MantuanoNovember 16, 2020

For the first time since indoor dining resumed in early September, Philly’s dining rooms will close as part of a new citywide mandate effective November 20th.

Mayor Jim Kenney and Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley have ordered all restaurants and bars to close their indoor dining rooms, effective November 20th through January 1st. The November 16th announcement comes two months after indoor dining resumed in September post-shutdown. Outdoor dining is still permitted but is limited to only household members, and tables can only seat up to four people.

These new restaurant and bar restrictions are part of a larger mandate that also prohibits indoor social gatherings, as well as indoor service at various businesses such as gyms, museums, and libraries.

The reasoning behind this order is prompted by record-high coronavirus cases in the city and surrounding counties. Closing restaurant dining rooms is just one step to slow the spread.

There are still many ways to safely support restaurants during this difficult time. You can order delivery or takeout and/or grab some pantry essentials at these spots instead of at the supermarket. And if you do wish to eat outdoors in the colder weather, you can find a list of restaurants with tents, heat lamps, and fire pits here.