John Willoughby
reporter2@greenepublishing.com
Let's face it. Since the first case of coronavirus hit Madison, you've had a craving to break free from the inevitable cabin fever and enjoy a fresh southern-cooked meal at your favorite downtown restaurant. You may have wanted to get away, peruse the aisles of local small shops and boutiques, but neither of it has been possible. However, as our calendars are flipped to read May, business owners are unlocking their doors for the first time in weeks, and they're as excited to see you as you are to see them.
With the recent minimal relaxation of strict prohibitions for the safety of citizens, the sun is rising yet again on the small town of Madison. On Wednesday, April 29, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced the first phase of reopening the state, which began on Monday, May 4. While he detailed the continued ban on senior living and long-term care facility visits and the resumption of elective surgeries, the governor announced what we all have yearned to hear – restaurants may open for indoor services – with one caveat, however: capacity seating must be limited to 25 percent.
During his press conference, he further stated that restaurants may offer outdoor seating while recognizing the federal guidelines for social distancing, which has prompted local restaurateurs to think outside of the box.
Greene Publishing's Mickey Starling spoke to C&D Bistro's Dan Sullivan, who is glad to see his outside seating fill up with hungry customers. "Madison is a great town and I expect that it will continue growing," said Sullivan, who is seeing a steady incline in the wake of the relaxed restrictions. Sullivan also boasted about his new kitchen and has hopes in continuing to expand.
While the pandemic has caused fewer food deliveries and increased prices, Sullivan is optimistic about the future of the C&D Bistro. "We will run out of some things because of delivery issues, but we will get through it," he added.
Residents have undoubtedly began to flock to restaurants, but food establishments aren't the only ones to see customers. A number of locally-owned stores in historic downtown Madison have also begun welcoming others back in their shops.
Amanda Norris, owner of Daisy and Dukes Boutique adjoined to Norris Cafe, is happy to have their doors open to the public again. Many of their customers have been expressing similar sentiments. "Most people are saying they were ready to get out of the house and they are tired of living in fear," Norris stated.