Starting June 10, Minnesota restaurants are approved to begin allowing guests inside their dining rooms as part of phase three of the governor’s Stay Safe MN plan. As we turn the safety dial another step towards a full reopening, let’s take a quick look at how these new Stay Safe MN rules will affect local certified food protection managers.
Certified Food Protection Managers and Phase Three of the Stay Safe MN Plan for Restaurants
In phase two, eateries were allowed to open, but only for outdoor seating and take-out. Under phase three, we can once again allow guests into our dining rooms with the following stipulations:
- Reservations Required
- 50-Percent Occupancy
- Social Distancing Enforced
- Employees Must Wear Masks
Many of the Stay Safe MN rules regarding food service staff in phase two still apply during phase three. Employees are required to wear masks and encourage guests to wear them when not eating. Tables must be social distanced. This can be achieved by removing tables from the dining room floor in order to create at least a six-foot buffer zone between tables. If you have the ability, it may be advised to stretch that buffer to allow guests to move to and from the bathroom and exits without coming into contact with other guests.
Reservations will also still be required. This helps prevent wait times where unrelated guests may be forced to mingle in waiting areas where social distancing may not be possible. We recommend spacing out your reservation times to allow guests plenty of time to enjoy their meal without being rushed in order for your establishment to cover the next reservation.
The biggest new regulation is that your establishment must operate at 50-percent capacity or under. Remember, this includes staff so certified food protection managers must take that into account when taking reservations during Stay Safe MN Phase 3. Tables should still seat only four guests unless they are from the same household, then a reservation can be taken for up to six diners.
Are you ready to entertain guests under phase three guidelines?
