For three months, the popular Bagel Boss Restaurant in Hewlett, just over the Queens border in Nassau County, could only serve their famous specialties to go because of coronavirus restrictions. On Wednesday, owner Randy Rosner was able to set up tables outside, inviting customers to stay awhile.
What You Need To Know:
- Long Island began phase two of the state's reopening plan on Wednesday.
- NYC began phase one on Monday.
- Long Island now permits outdoor dining, barbers and salons to open with restrictions.
- Some Long Islanders say they are happy but also express using caution to avoid a resurgence of COVID-19 in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
“All through the pandemic, we’ve been getting support from people coming in, picking up stuff and we are doing a lot of curbside pickups also, but now they can actually sit outside and enjoy their lunch,” said Rosner, who noted the store has also been shipping bagels nationwide to make up for lost revenues.
Outdoor dining is allowed under phase two of Long Island's reopening, which began Wednesday. A return to buying food and eating it on premises is big as New Yorkers everywhere look toward a return to some kind of normalcy. That also comes with a healthy dose of caution.
"I just hope that people still take heed about social distancing and wearing masks and doing what they need to do so we don’t have a resurgence,” one Five Towns-area resident said.
"I love the idea but you still have to be cautious,” said another. "You can’t just assume that everything is back to normal."
Non-essential businesses like Matty’s Toy Stop in Hewlett welcomed shoppers inside for the first time since March, with masks and social distancing required.
Another experience now available on Long Island is a simple pleasure many have missed: a haircut. Phase two allows for barbers and salons to reopen with restrictions like masks and gloves and social distancing on the line to get in. And there was a line: Kenny Stolls got his first cut in months, other than a failed attempt at home by family members. He was more comfortable at his regular place, the Towne Circle barber Shop on Broadway in Hewlett.
“It feels great. I can join society again," said Stolls, who thanked his barber. It was a good day for the Barber shop too. The day brought business and a lively atmosphere once again after months of being home.
For New York City, it’s a case of so close, so far. Bagel Boss, Matty's and Towne Circle are just a 10 minute drive from Queens, where phase one began Monday along with the rest of the city. It will be at least a few weeks, until the five boroughs can enjoy once favorite experiences normally again.