SPOKANE, Wash. — With new guidelines in place, restaurants are gearing up for Valentine's Day adjustments.
The East region, including Spokane, is moving into Phase 2 of the "Healthy Washington" reopening plan on Sunday, Feb. 14, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced on Thursday. Phase 2 allows a handful of businesses in Eastern Washington to reopen at limited capacity, including restaurants for indoor dining and fitness centers. Wedding receptions are also allowed in Phase 2, with some restrictions in place.
The holiday on Sunday will signal the first time many businesses are allowed to open their indoor dining spaces since Inslee implemented new restrictions nearly three months ago. In that time, there has been a plethora of adjustments as businesses in the hospitality industry focus on survival.
“Just trying to get creative, really, and think of how we can keep people employed,” said Matt Damskov, general manager at the Ruby River Hotel.
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The Osprey Restaurant and Bar has adapted to every protocol thrown its way. While Spokane gets the go-ahead for moving into Phase 2, it's an opportunity to build upon the grit they’ve already displayed.
Throughout the pandemic, they’ve implemented new ways to serve the community.
“They’re comfortable, they’re heated, and they have a great view of the river,” Damskov said when describing igloos at the restaurant. “They’ve been a big asset for us throughout this tough time.”
A new drive-thru BBQ option is also located out front. Igloos on the patio align with the former guidelines that allowed only outdoor dining.
The Osprey is just one of several restaurants that can bring indoor dining back at 25% capacity on Valentine’s Day.
“I think people just needed a little bit of hope and I think this gives us that little boost that a lot of people needed right now,” said WHA CEO Anthony Anton.
Twenty-five percent capacity is a step in the right direction, although they remain confident that restaurants can operate safely at 50 percent.
“We’re going to keep working for those things, but we are going to enjoy the moment and I hope everyone has a great Valentine’s Day,” Anton continued.
Phase 2 signals a positive sign after a year filled with challenges. Places like the Osprey have adjusted as protocols changed. Now, they get to welcome even more customers back while they wait for what the future holds under Phase 3.
“Even 25 percent, we’re thankful for at this point,” Damskov said.