Bars in Chandigarh to open under strict adherence to Covid norms

Gurnaaz Kaur

Tipplers have a reason to rejoice in the city, as doors of the bars will be open for them once again! However, serving alcohol to customers comes with a lot of responsibility, considering there are strict rules to comply with — social distancing norms and other Covid-19 protocols. So, how are the bar-owners gearing up for the big re-opening?

The picture is not all that rosy, but there is hope for business. And this, Vipul Dua, owner, Peddlers-35, says, “May or may not be the actual scenario. Our documents are ready with license fee that needs to be submitted to the Excise Department, but we are waiting for the exact guidelines. Having said that, from how things are, we are prepared to re-open the bar. The bottles are all sanitised, the distance between tables and chairs is in place and it will be 33 per cent staff at the bar too. As far as we are concerned, there will be only dining facility; no dancing at Peddlers because social distancing on the dance floor can be a challenge.”

Taking no chances

Restaurants have seen a handful of diners since they resumed service, but bar operations could mean a significant difference. Ramandeep Marwah, general manager, JW Marriott, Sector 35, Chandigarh, says, “We have enhanced protocols at 35Brewhouse — right from reservations to a safe dining experience to maintaining social distance. As we move from being aesthetically clean to clinically clean, we look forward to welcoming our guests back.”

Temperature checks, frequent use of sanitisers for guests and staff, mandatory handwash for the staff every 30 minutes, paperless payment and menu… At Virgin Courtyard, an Italian restaurant in Sector 7, chef Hari is quite excited, “It is good news from the business point of view, as this move will add to our sales. We will sanitise all the bottles of beer and wine before taking them to the bar. Rest whatever guidelines come from the UT government will be followed.”

Testing times

Mayank Bhatt, brand head at Social, Sector 7, says, “We are happy that bars can re-open in Chandigarh now. It will give us some much-needed revenue in these testing times. At Social, we are ensuring that all safety protocols are followed — be it our kitchen and other staff in recommended PPE gears, or the sanitisation of tables, chairs, etc, after each use. We have also facilitated a fully contactless ordering and payment process via the customer’s individual phone.”

Adds Zorawar Kalra, MD, Massive Restaurants Pvt Ltd, who owns Farzi Cafe, Sector 26, “It is a welcome move; however, we are still awaiting the official go-ahead. It will enable more restaurants to take the plunge and open, which will subsequently lead to a significant increase in employment. Having said this, the safety of our patrons remains our top-most priority and we will adhere to all guidelines.”