Several clubs open, adjust to new era

Three nightclub owners in north Fulton County have reopened for business — utilizing outdoor spaces and reducing customer numbers allowed inside to keep everyone safely separated.

The clubs were allowed to reopen June 1 as long as they comply with a set of 39 man- datory measures, including limiting the clubs’ capacity.

Cigar City Club owner Julius Bolton said the closure of his Sandy Springs club during the pandemic was devastat- ing to the business. In addition to regular cigar smokers, 15% of his customers are nonsmokers who come to mingle, dine and listen to live music.

Bolton reopened Cigar City Club on June 4 with limited occupancy. About half of his 22 employees are back, he said.

“We were getting calls from members (and patrons) the whole time that we were closed wanting to know when we are opening,” he said.

The threat of coronavirus has put an emphasis on indoor ventilation and the need to keep customers separated. To comply with state guidelines for reopening, Bolton removed some seats and tables. He also added tables outside.

David Kamran, co-owner of Chaplins restaurant and karaoke bar, has moved the karaoke singing to the outdoor patio. Before the pandemic, karaoke singing took place five days a week, ending at 2 a.m. It’s now offered only from 8-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Chris Dauria, owner of Johnny’s Hideaway in Buckhead, said many patrons have returned to the club during the week when it’s less crowded. Only 16 people are allowed on the dance floor at a time, he said. Patrons want to mingle and are not used to staying seated at their tables if they are not dancing, he added. Johnny’s has capacity for 265 people but for now allows only 95 inside under state guidelines.