Gov. Pritzker Announces Expanded Outdoor Dining Options During COVID-19
Governor Pritzker recently announced expanded outdoor dining options for restaurants throughout the state. IRA President & CEO Sam Toia joined the Governor and state leaders for the announcement. The outdoor dining strategies supported by the administration will likely extend restaurants a lifeline, help bring back some jobs, and offer diners the hospitality experience they’ve been missing – all while maintaining necessary public health and safety measures. Click here to read the full announcement.
Illinois Liquor Control Commission Allows for Returns of Wine and Spirits to Distributors
Because Illinois’ Stay at Home Order continues to impose hardships on licensed on-premises alcoholic liquor retailers, the Illinois Liquor Control Commission is authorizing the return of wine and spirits products sold and delivered by a distributor to a retailer. Learn more here.
Social Distancing Guidelines for Restaurants and Third Party Delivery Services
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has issued new social distancing guidelines for restaurants and third party delivery services during the COVID-19 crisis. Click here to review the guidelines.
City of Chicago Issues Guidance for Restaurants and Bars
- The consumption of food or beverage is not permitted inside a restaurant or bar.
- Congregation of any kind is not permitted inside or outside a restaurant or bar.
- Drive-thru, delivery and carry out or curbside pick-up may continue, with the restaurant owner responsible to ensure social distancing policies are in place and followed.
Click here for the full press release.
Customers may enter restaurants to order food and immediately leave upon receiving the food. BACP has put together a FAQ document with answers to the many questions facing business owners and consumers.
Alcohol Sales Guidance from BACP and IL Liquor Commission
The City of Chicago’s Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) has released updated guidance related to the sale of alcohol by restaurants in Chicago.
The city’s guidance confirms that restaurants with a Consumption on Premises-Incidental Activity liquor license can sell and deliver alcohol in Chicago, under the following conditions:
- Consumption on premises-incidental activity and tavern liquor licensees in the City of Chicago can sell and deliver incidental packaged goods liquor. By definition they have local approval.
- Liquor sales and delivery must occur during liquor sale hours as defined in the Municipal Code 4-60-130.
- Licensees must verify proof of age.
- No cash on delivery; the transaction must take place at the retail licensee.
- Only sealed packaged goods in their original container (no to-go cups) can be sold or delivered.
- Additional restrictions on delivery may apply to those who are licensed by the State as brew pubs, distilling pubs and manufacturers. These businesses should contact the ILCC for additional information.
- Reference this Q&A document from the ILCC.
