Since Toronto patios have been given the green light to reopen, many locals aren't wasting any time in grabbing a drink. However, one food joint is now switching up its rules. Toronto's Ruby Soho, a popular bar on King Street, is now banning outdoor lines after being slammed with customers this weekend.
Photos of the crowded downtown bar began to surface on Twitter late last week, causing concern amongst residents who claimed that little to no social distancing measures were being honoured.
Archie Alleyne, the bar’s owner, later took to Instagram on Sunday night to acknowledge the incident and notify customers of the change.
Despite the reported crowds, Alleyne stated that outdoor lines will now be banned in an attempt to continue practicing safe social distancing.
“We want to thank everyone for the support the last few days. Its been over-whelming and appreciated. That said due to the high demand, and our responsibility as a business to play our role in the safe reopening of our industry, we have instituted some new measurements,” read a statement from Ruby Soho.
“Effective immediately, we will no longer allow distanced line-up outside our venue as it’s just not working — we have moved to reservations and walk-up with call back system only. Absolutely no lines at the present time,” it added.
However, it isn’t just Ruby Soho that seemed to have a busy patio this weekend.
Several other restaurants and bars, including Regulars, which is also located on King Street, showed videos of crowded joints.
“While I’m happy to see restaurant patios on King St. buzzing with life, there needs to be an adjustment. There are large line-ups for restaurants, and the sidewalks are packed. No masks,” wrote one user.
It is worth noting that Toronto Public Health does recommend that all restaurants consider using a reservation system.
However, there is currently no rule in place that forces patios to ban walk-ins or line-ups.