MEDICINE HAT, AB – Patio season is starting early this year.
And some new outdoor additions are popping up around the city.
Including outdoor seating at Tops Steakhouse and a parking lot expansion at The Silver Buckle.
With the government’s step one measures back in effect, restaurants are restricted to provide only takeout, delivery, and patio service.
Those restrictions began Friday, April 9 at noon.
Grit City Distillery was one pub to make a quick turn-around this week.
Owner Andy Schmunk says they were upset when the restrictions were announced on Tuesday.
“So I took the day and I just thought what can we do to get through this so we decided to build a patio,” Schmunk told Chat News.
To navigate and comply with restrictions, Grit City built the temporary patio on Thursday.
It’s now up and running for the spring and summer seasons.
Fellow restaurants agree these restrictions are frustrating, but they’re rolling with the punches and turning on the heat lamps.
Including Moxie’s, where owner Matt Peterson says their patio has been open since late March since it’s been nice out.
“It’s unfortunate to have your business at the mercy of the weather and Mother Nature. But fingers crossed that the sun comes out and we can get people on the patio and enjoying some dinner out there,” Peterson added.
Over in the downtown, Local was buzzing during the noon hour.
They set their patio up on Friday morning.
Owner Mike Waskalik says normally it’s a few weeks later when the weather is a bit more consistent.
“We got early permission from the city to get it going just because of the situation. They’ve been really helpful and expedited the process to get our permit.”
Waskalik says they are trying to make the best of a difficult situation.
They’re also giving out blankets to customers if the weather gets a bit cool.
“I’m grateful that we’re blessed to have the patio that we do and that we can continue to operate. My heart goes out to those operators who don’t have that luxury and I hope that everyone makes it through it,” Waskalik said.
“It would be hard to say it’s not frustrating, Peterson added. “Especially this time around, I feel like restaurants have been singled out somewhat along with gyms.”
Though these are uncertain times with some chilly days ahead, patrons are happy to get outside and still enjoy a meal.
“You know what, we’re Canadians, we’re rolling with it,” Waskalik added.
