Texas Governor Greg Abbott has developed a report of his plan to reopen Texas, giving strict guidelines on the safe opening of Texas economy. In the report, Governor Abbott outlines the standards for restaurants and other business operations regarding social distancing, hygiene, and sanitizing. The statement below is a part of the restaurant guidelines for the state of Texas. Please note, public health guidance cannot anticipate every unique situation. Restaurants should stay informed and take actions based on wise judgment that will protect health and support economic revitalization.
Read Governor Abbott’s complete report for reopening here.
Also included below is a list of restaurants offering take-out and delivery services (This is not a complete listing; some restaurants may not be listed).
MINIMUM STANDARD HEALTH PROTOCOL
CHECKLIST FOR RESTAURANTS Page 1 of 3
As outlined in Governor Abbott’s executive order GA-18, restaurants may operate for dine-in service up to 25% of the total listed occupancy of the restaurant, and may not offer valet services except for vehicles with placards or plates for disabled parking. As used in executive order GA-18, this applies only to restaurants that are not required to post the 51% sign required by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Restaurants may continue to provide to-go or delivery services.
In accordance with Governor Abbott’s executive order GA-18, the following are the minimum recommended health protocols for all restaurants choosing to operate in Texas. Restaurants may adopt additional protocols consistent with their specific needs and circumstances to help protect the health and safety of all employees and customers.
The virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to others by infected persons who have few or no symptoms. Even if an infected person is only mildly ill, the people they spread it to may become seriously ill or even die, especially if that person is 65 or older with pre-existing health conditions that place them at higher risk.
Because of the hidden nature of this threat, everyone should rigorously follow the practices specified in these protocols, all of which facilitate a safe and measured reopening of Texas. The virus that causes COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities. We should continue to observe practices that protect everyone, including those who are most vulnerable.
Please note, public health guidance cannot anticipate every unique situation. Restaurants should stay informed and take actions based on common sense and wise judgment that will protect health and support economic revitalization. Restaurants should also be mindful of federal and state employment laws and workplace safety standards.
Health protocols for serving your customers:
- Parties maintain at least 6 feet distance apart from other parties at all times, including while waiting to be seated in the restaurant.
- Make a hand sanitizing station available upon entry to the restaurant.
- No tables of more than 6 people.
Dining:
- Do not leave condiments, silverware, flatware, glassware, or other traditional table top items on an unoccupied table
- Provide condiments only upon request, and in single use (non-reusable) portions.
- Use disposable menus (new for each patron)
- If a buffet is offered, restaurant employees serve the food to customers.
- Contactless payment is encouraged. Where not available, contact should be minimized.
Restaurant Guidance for Safe Operation and Service
Grocery Store Guidance for Safe Operation and Service
