Local bars, restaurants and patrons enjoy first days of in-person dining resuming

MARQUETTE — After months of being closed, bars and restaurants around the state have finally opened their doors for in-person dining.

Although the bars and restaurants are only allowed to open at 25% capacity, that hasn’t stopped locals from supporting their favorite businesses.

The first day of being open was a breath of fresh air, for both patrons and businesses alike.

“It was great to see so many of our regular customers come back in and be able to sit and have a nice meal,” said Rob Caron, co-partner of Vango’s Pizza and Cocktail Lounge in Marquette. “People are really excited to come sit down and have a meal, and maybe a cocktail or a beer, and have that experience again. I think people really enjoyed it.”

Along with the 25% capacity limit, bars and restaurants must close at 10 p.m. each night, and patrons must wear masks when not eating or drinking.

Caron adds that even with limited seating, Vango’s has been able to bring back some of its employees, although not at full staff.

The orders allowing limited dining capacity expires February 21st.