With the lockdown seemingly nearing its end, local restaurant owners are preparing for what will most likely be a very different dining experience, writes Caroline O’Halloran for SAVVY Main Line.

“Business will be off,” said Christopher Todd, owner of Christopher’s in Malvern and Wayne. “Until there’s either a vaccine or more testing, I think many families won’t be comfortable coming out to public spaces.”

In fact, Todd already believes he will have to halve the seating at both of his establishments.

“In any other time, that would be a death sentence,” he said.

But Todd is hoping that the continued success of takeout will help make up for dining-room losses. He is also going to ensure all his staff wear masks.

Frank Chiavaroli, who has co-owned Frankie’s Fellini Café in Berwyn with Rita Morena for 15 years, has also been able to remain in business, thanks to takeout.

“The tough part is when we re-open,” said Chiavaroli. “I’m sure we’re going to lose 50 percent of our dining room because of new guidelines.”

He is also worried whether his regulars will return once he reopens.

“People are freaked out by this,” he said.

Read more about the expected changes at SAVVY Main Line here.

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