Open and Shut

Restaurants are neighborhood hubs and cultural centers, and they are vital components of the many diverse communities across the state.

FIRST, SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST WAS CANceled, the canary in the quarantine coal mine. In 2019, the conference had an estimated $356 million impact on Austin’s economy, but with more than 400,000 attendees poised to gather in Central Austin, and with COVID-19 looming, Mayor Steve Adler declared a local disaster, canceling the festival.

The cancellation was the first of many devastating blows to Texas restaurants. A respiratory illness that spreads through sustained proximity to infected parties is uniquely suited to decimate an industry that makes its money off encouraging folks to linger over food and drinks. Texas restaurants were threatened the instant COVID-19 arrived.

Soon, cities and counties across the state started closing restaurant dining rooms, with a statewide order to do so taking effect on March 19. Delivery and takeout were still allowed, and beverage laws were relaxed for alcohol