What Chicagoans say about returning to restaurants, bars now that indoor dining is back
With Chicago bars and restaurants given the green light to reopen for indoor diningin, we asked Chicagoans: Will you be venturing back inside restaurants and bars? Some answers have been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.
“Nope. Haven’t since last March, and it’s hardly a hardship to continue ordering takeout until vaccine distribution is further along.”
Cassie Wancata Wagner
“I’ll wait until the majority of people are vaccinated, no matter how long it takes. I do understand that so many owners and employees in the restaurant business are hurting, so I’ll continue to order carryout from them until I feel comfortable eating indoors.”
Jean Dorsey Johnson
“No. It’s not safe. The rich people in charge are making decisions based on the economy and not human lives. Shameful.” Sam O’Rama
“Already been going ... yes. Indiana and suburban restaurants have been getting my cash already.”
Eric Has
“Not yet. The numbers are decreasing, but they’re still really high, and there’s a more contagious strain going around. I’d rather wait a little longer and make sure I’ve gotten my vaccination.”
Eden Lee
“Yes! Need to support small businesses!! Can’t live in fear.”
Oscar Ramirez
“ASSUMING OUR FAVORITE ESTABLISHMENTS ARE FOLLOWING THE GUIDELINES, YES. WE BELIEVE IT’S CRITICALLY IMPORTANT TO SUPPORT THESE BUSINESSES AND THEIR TEAMS.”
Chris Finkley
“I will not. I don’t have any of the known risk factors, but it’s my responsibility to keep the spread of COVID to a minimum for the sake of everyone who is at risk. I know several people who tested positive and were asymptomatic. So, even if I feel well, it doesn’t mean I’m not a danger to others.” Karen Johnson
“I haven’t gone this long just to let my guard down now.” Angela Ballard