The Barge Seafood and Steakhouse Restaurant in Perth Amboy on the waterfront has been closed during the pandemic, but it will reopen its doors starting Monday June 15 for outdoor dining and takeout service. The patio will be open weather permitting for lunch and dinner. The Armory Restaurant on the Waterfront in Perth Amboy will also open for outdoor dining on Monday June 15th, and has been open for takout. Ciro’s Italian Restaurant, Pizzeria & Bar at 273 High St will open an outdoor sidewalk cafe. El Tiro & Balilo Steak House Bar & Grill at 519 State St also has an outdoor cafe opening. The state recommends making reservations for outdoor dining. The state also recommends customers wait in their cars or away from the establishment while waiting for a table if outdoor wait areas do not allow for proper social distancing.

Governor Murphy signed an executive order allowing restaurants to open for outdoor dining starting on June 15th with strict guidelines and regulations to protect against the spread of COVID-19. Tables must be limited to 8 people and must be 6 ft apart. Masks must be worn inside when going to the bathroom. All workers must wear masks and have daily health checks. All menus must be frequently sanitized. A list of the state rules and guidelines is available online, so you can prepare for your visit to a restaurant.

The City of Perth Amboy is working with its restaurants to grant temporary permits that will allow them to take advantage of the outdoor dining opportunity, such as by allowing for them to create sidewalk cafes. The Perth Amboy Business Improvement District has released the Temporary COVID-19 Sidewalk Cafe/Outdoor Dining On-Line Application for restaurant owners to apply for outdoor dining. The form can be easily submitted to Perth Amboy Code Enforcement.

A list of outdoor dining opportunities in Perth Amboy will be available soon.