Pubs Reopening: A Toast to New Beginnings and Rekindled Friendships
After months of staying indoors, practicing social distancing, and limiting our social interactions, we finally have some good news: pubs are reopening! As you step out into the world and plan to catch up with friends over a pint or two, you want to make sure you’re prepared. We’ve got you covered, from the latest news and updates on pubs reopening to finding the best spots for you and your friends to gather, relax, and have a great time.
This blog post is your one-stop guide to fully enjoy the experience of pubs reopening. So, buckle up, beer enthusiasts, and let’s find the perfect pubs for you, your friends, and those precious moments worth celebrating. Cheers to new beginnings and rekindled friendships!
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Pub Reopening Rules
- Safety Measures for Pubs Reopening
- Top 10 U.S. Cities for Pub Enthusiasts
- Discovering the Best Pubs for Different Occasions
- New Pub Trends: The Rise of Breweries and Taprooms
- Pub Etiquette 101: Tips for a Great Pub Experience
- Floating Pubs: Experience the Best of Both Worlds
- Conclusion
Understanding the Pub Reopening Rules
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s quickly go through the pub reopening rules. Each state has different rules and regulations for reopening pubs and bars, so it’s important to know the guidelines in your local area. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Limited capacity: Pubs will most likely operate at limited capacity, usually ranging from 25% to 75% occupancy. This means that pubs may not be able to accommodate large groups, so plan accordingly and consider making reservations in advance.
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Social distancing: Pubs are encouraged to arrange tables and seating to allow for proper social distancing. In some cases, pubs may also provide outdoor seating or expand their patios to accommodate more customers while maintaining a safe distance.
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Masks and sanitation: Staff members are typically required to wear masks, and pubs must provide hand sanitizing stations for customers. When you visit a pub, remember to bring your own mask and use hand sanitizer whenever necessary.
Now that we’ve covered the basic rules and regulations, let’s move on to some useful tips for staying safe while visiting your favorite pubs.
Safety Measures for Pubs Reopening
As exciting as it may be to finally grab a drink with your friends at a pub, it’s essential to remain cautious and follow the necessary safety measures. Keep these tips in mind when visiting pubs during their reopening phase:
- Check for updated hours: Some pubs may have adjusted their opening hours due to the pandemic, so double-check before heading out.
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Make a reservation: To avoid disappointment, consider making a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit the pub during peak hours.
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Opt for outdoor seating: When possible, choose outdoor seating or open-air spaces, as these areas tend to have better airflow and ventilation.
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Follow the pub’s safety guidelines: Pay attention to and follow any specific safety measures implemented by the pub. This could include wearing a mask when not seated at your table or avoiding mingling with other groups.
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Stay home if you’re feeling unwell: If you’re experiencing any symptoms of illness, it’s best to play it safe and stay home. There will be plenty of opportunities to visit pubs in the future, and your friends will appreciate your consideration for their health and well-being.
By following these safety measures, you’re not only protecting yourself but also contributing to a safer environment for everyone at the pub, ensuring that we can all continue to enjoy these cherished social spaces.
Top 10 U.S. Cities for Pub Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler looking to explore the best pubs in the U.S., we’ve got you covered. Here are our top 10 U.S. cities for pub enthusiasts, each boasting a unique pub scene that you won’t want to miss:
- Portland, Oregon: Known for its thriving craft beer scene, Portland boasts more than 70 breweries and pubs, offering a wide variety of beers to satisfy any palate.
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Asheville, North Carolina: With a strong focus on local ingredients and creative brews, Asheville has quickly made a name for itself in the craft beer world.
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Denver, Colorado: Often referred to as the “Napa Valley of Beer,” Denver is home to more than 150 breweries and an annual Great American Beer Festival.
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San Diego, California: San Diego’s vibrant craft beer scene features over 130 breweries, known for pioneering the West Coast IPA.
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Austin, Texas: From laid-back dive bars to upscale gastropubs, Austin provides a diverse pub scene to accommodate all tastes.
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Chicago, Illinois: Offering a mix of historic taverns and innovative craft breweries, the Windy City’s pub scene is not to be underestimated.
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Boston, Massachusetts: The city’s rich history and strong Irish influence are evident in its numerous traditional pubs scattered throughout the city.
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: With a focus on both quality and quantity, Philadelphia’s pub scene offers an impressive variety of local and imported beers.
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Seattle, Washington: Home to a growing number of breweries and gastropubs, Seattle is quickly making its mark in the craft beer scene.
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New York City, New York: As one would expect from the Big Apple, New York City’s pub scene is as diverse and eclectic as the city itself, offering something for everyone.
So, whether you’re exploring your local pub scene or traveling to a new city, you can rest assured that there’s an exciting pub experience waiting for you.
Discovering the Best Pubs for Different Occasions
Just like how every person has their unique preferences, the same is true for pubs. Some pubs are perfect for a casual get-together, while others cater to a more sophisticated crowd. Let’s explore some of the best pubs for different occasions:
- Casual catch-up with friends: Look for pubs with a laid-back atmosphere, outdoor seating, and a solid tap list. These are the spots where you can kick back, relax, and have a great time with your friends without worrying about dressing up or breaking the bank.
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Date night: For a more romantic outing, opt for pubs with cozy interiors, dim lighting, and a curated menu of craft beers or cocktails. Bonus points if the pub has a fireplace or live music.
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Business meeting or networking event: If you’re planning to meet with colleagues or potential clients, choose a pub with a professional yet comfortable atmosphere. Look for establishments with ample seating, a diverse beer list, and a food menu that caters to various dietary preferences.
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Celebratory gathering: For birthdays, promotions, or other milestones, find a pub with a lively atmosphere, an extensive drink selection, and enough space to accommodate a larger group. If possible, reserve a private area or a dedicated section of the pub for your group.
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Sports event viewing: Catch the big game at a sports pub or a bar with multiple large-screen TVs, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the action. Make sure they have a solid selection of beers on tap and a menu of game-time snacks to keep you fueled throughout the event.
By choosing the right pub for the occasion, you’re setting the stage for a memorable and enjoyable experience with your friends, family, or colleagues.
New Pub Trends: The Rise of Breweries and Taprooms
As more people become interested in craft beer, the pub scene is evolving to cater to this demand. In recent years, there has been a surge in the number of breweries and taprooms, offering beer enthusiasts the chance to savor unique and locally-produced brews.
These venues often have a more laid-back atmosphere than traditional pubs, focusing on the quality and variety of beers on offer rather than providing a full food menu or extensive cocktail list. Some taprooms also collaborate with local food trucks to give customers a perfect pairing for their craft beers.
Visiting breweries and taprooms is an exciting and educational way to explore the world of craft beer, learning about different beer styles, brewing techniques, and the stories behind each brewery. As pubs continue to reopen, consider adding a visit to a nearby brewery or taproom to your list of must-visit spots.
Pub Etiquette 101: Tips for a Great Pub Experience
Despite the changing landscape of the pub scene, some things remain constant, such as the importance of good pub etiquette. Here are a few tips to ensure a great pub experience for everyone involved:
- Know what you want before approaching the bar: Be prepared to order when it’s your turn, especially when the pub is busy. If you’re not sure what to order, you can always ask the bartender for recommendations.
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Be patient and respect the queue: Don’t try to cut in line or wave down the bartender while they’re serving someone else. Wait your turn, and you’ll be served promptly.
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Tip your bartender: In the U.S., it’s customary to tip your bartender, usually around $1-2 per drink. Remember, they’re working hard to keep you and your friends refreshed and happy.
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Respect your fellow patrons: While the pub is a place for socializing and enjoying your drinks, be mindful of your noise level and personal space. Remember that everyone is there to have a good time, just like you.
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Know when it’s time to leave: Don’t overstay your welcome or ignore the pub’s closing time. Respect the staff’s need to clean up and prepare for the next day.
By following these pub etiquette guidelines, you’ll contribute to a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone at the pub, including yourself.
Floating Pubs: Experience the Best of Both Worlds
If you’re looking for a unique pub experience, look no further than floating pubs. These establishments combine the charm of a traditional pub with the novelty of being on a boat or a waterfront location. Floating pubs can be found in various cities across the U.S., offering stunning views, refreshing sea breezes, and, of course, a fantastic selection of beers and cocktails.
So, if you’re searching for a unique venue that combines the allure of a pub with the magic of being on the water, make sure to check out floating pubs in your area or during your next coastal vacation.
Conclusion
As pubs reopen and we gradually return to normalcy, there’s no better time to reconnect with friends, savor a cold pint, and explore the ever-growing and diverse pub scene in the U.S. With so many exciting options and new experiences to discover, a visit to your favorite pub or a new destination is sure to create lasting memories and cherished moments with your loved ones.
So, grab your friends, raise your glasses, and toast to new beginnings and rekindled friendships as we celebrate the return of our beloved pubs. Cheers!