TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — It’s been anything but easy for the bars and restaurants since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite supply shortages and a new COVID-19 variant, Omicron, businesses are hoping to close the year strong.
Kara Woodburn with T’s Lounge said she has noticed business increasing recently.
“With everything going on with the vaccine and everything, I feel like people feel more comfortable,” Woodburn said. “Our crowds have gotten bigger. It feels like it’s getting back to normal again, people don’t seem as scared anymore.”
Masks will not be required at the bar’s New Year’s Eve Glow Party, but staff will continue sanitation protocols.
For the 7th and Elm Bar and Grille, keeping customers and employees safe is a priority, including sanitizing and self-assessments.
“It’s good for our employees and customers,” owner Max Bedrava said. “We don’t want to run the risk of anything happening.”
Masks will be optional for customers.
“Most of our staff is vaccinated and we are taking all precautions needed,” Bedrava said. “We respect whatever people choose to do.”
7th and Elm Bar and Grille expect the busiest time of businesses will be between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. More information about their holiday specials can be found by clicking this link.
With fewer items available due to supply shortages, Woodburn said stocking early is key to accommodate the expected crowds.
“It has been tricky, we found a way through it and the customers have been so understanding,” she added.
