Picnic tables on sidewalks. Parking lots turned into patios. Dinner while sitting on a road, where cars once drove.
That’s what dining at California restaurants looks like, and with indoor dining prohibited, we are grateful to the many cities who are helping restaurants move outside.
Restaurateurs, as creative and hardworking as ever, have quickly pivoted their entire business model. In the face of many limitations, they are managing to offer new products, new ways of ordering and dining… and they are staying optimistic during an unprecedented situation.
We will continue to update this list of proud restaurateurs who are helping all of us enjoy a little bit of summer safely. Their hard work to keep guests and employees safe shows – their guests have noticed it, too!
Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria
“A great family-friendly spot! We had Ray as our server when we were here and he is top-notch! His service made us feel like we are in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Really attentive, thorough and always checking in on us! We will definitely be back!” – Nancy T. from San Francisco (Yelp)
Flaherty’s Seafood Grill and Oyster Bar
“[It was] very clean! The staff were all wearing masks and gloves. Seats were being cleaned and spaced outside. The staff was very attentive. You could really tell everyone liked his or her job or at least working together. Oh, and the margaritas… 10 out of 10.” – Thelma R. from San Jose, CA (Yelp)
Fogo De Chão
“Great food! During this pandemic, all the staff were very sanitary and at less capacity which made it more comfortable for me. I thought the staff were very attentive and catered to our needs. I didn’t feel neglected at all. I love that we didn’t have to wait long before a new dish would come around too. If anything, I couldn’t keep up I was so full! We’ll definitely be back!” – Rachel G. from Chula Vista, CA (Yelp)
Hooley’s Public House
“Great selection of beer and spirits. You have to try the Rubin! Pair it with a Guinness and you have found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Don’t forget to add tots! The atmosphere and service wraps it up with a bow.” – Robert C. from El Cajon, CA (Yelp)
Mary’s Pizza Shack
“A fun experience dining on Mary’s new patio! Comfortable, great ambiance and feels like something you’d find in a bigger city but with great service. The beer wall was full of craft beers, and we were able to choose and taste our own flights. The pizza was great, as always. Their crust is the best!” – Wendy Z. from Livermore, CA (Yelp)
Pacific Catch
“OMG! Soooooo good! First, I got to sit with my dog on the patio so they get extra points for being pet friendly. The service was good but the Brussel sprouts are to die for. I had that with the salmon and crab mashed potatoes. It was just so delicious and my cocktail “island mule” was great too! I would come back here for the Brussel sprouts alone, but this is a must-try place for your taste buds!!! Yummy!” – Dee W. from Roswell, GA (Yelp)
Pez Cantina
“Best place for Mexican food in Downtown LA! The tacos platter is delicious with beans and rice. It has the best patio atmosphere especially when the live bands play. I’ve been coming here frequently and I’ll keep coming back.” – Oscar U. from Burbank, CA (Yelp)
Sushi Confidential
“My absolutely favorite sushi restaurant in our area. I crave it at least once a week! Even during these trying times, Randy (the owner) has the most positive attitude and is always striving to better their offering and to help the community. I recommend this restaurant to many people – you will not regret coming here and certainly not during the shelter-in-place order.” – Joann C. from San Jose, CA (Yelp)
Tequila Museo Mayahuel
“My boyfriend and I came here for our anniversary. We were skeptical because of everything going on with COVID-19. However, they were extremely safe and the outdoor patio is perfect! It’s definitely more upscale Mexican food, which was awesome! We even did the tequila tasting flights! Our waiter was awesome and extremely knowledgeable. He made a couple of suggestions that we went with that we otherwise wouldn’t have. We will definitely be returning!” – Kat S. from Sacramento, CA (Yelp)
Underdogs Too
“Underdogs Too had a welcoming environment and quick service! The food was delicious and all employees were wearing masks. The restaurant offered outdoor seating and takeout, and it was also very sanitary. I highly recommend you support this local SF community!” – Cabbage M. from San Francisco, CA (Yelp)
Urban Plates
“Best. Food. Ever. I have been here several times and order the steak plate with Brussel sprouts and mashed potatoes. The portions are a good size for the price that you pay. This is a convenient place to come for a quick lunch or dinner because you order at the counter versus having a server.” – Nicolette B. from Huntington Beach, CA (Yelp)
Vitello’s Restaurant
“This place was great! Food and service were top-notch and we really appreciated that there was so much room between tables. Wonderful experience!” – Jerome K. from Austin, TX (Yelp)
