As schools are shut down and workers are sent home, restaurants and businesses have had to update their service in order to stay open and comply with new rules and regulations from the CDC and the Governor of South Carolina, Henry McMaster. 

The Governor announced on Tuesday, March 17th that “Restaurants and bars must close their dine-in service starting tomorrow, starting tomorrow morning,” “It is allowed and recommended that takeout, curbside delivery of food….all that be increased, enhanced” 

This means that inside dining and seating areas are all closed because they could be a health safety hazard in the goal of slowing the spread of COVID-19. Drive thru and Carry Outs are still allowed to be open and available and are strongly recommended by the Governor in order to keep the economy flowing and our local Restaurants alive. While businesses will certainly be impacted, it is the hope that consumers will still support local places during this time.  

While Restaurants and Fast Food places have followed these new regulations, many have decided to close for the time being because they can’t afford to stay open just for takeouts.White Horse and McCales are some of the few who have closed their doors.  Many Rock Hill restaurants have decided to stay open and make as much business as they can during this period, but many are going to suffer because of social distancing and closures. 

Hometown favorites like Ebenezer Grill, Grumpy Brothers and Michaels are having takeouts and curbside pickups for customers. Other restaurants are offering new specials during these hard times to promote business, but also help consumers that are struggling as well. Lee’s Famous Recipe is having a free kids special Monday through Friday, Knowledge Perk is offering community care cards , and HWY 55 is advertising a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entree. 

While Citizens are urged to stay home, it is also important that local restaurants are not forgotten as they strive to stay open to support their staff and community. While times are hard we need to think of ways to get through it as a community. Staying home is very important, but don’t forget to keep supporting businesses as they struggle to stay open for families and their staff.