Michiana bar working to keep customers safe ahead of big game

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. – The big game is finally here. As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to go head-to-head in the Super Bowl, bars and restaurants in Michiana are getting ready to welcome fans.

Jason Reynolds, an operating partner at the Galley Sports Pub in Elkhart, said they’ve already booked two rooms for private watch parties, and to ensure the bar isn’t too crowded, they took table reservations a week in advance. Right now, they are booked and don’t plan on taking any more bookings.

However, they did leave some open seating at the bar, and two tables are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Each table inside the bar is six feet apart from one another, allowing guests to social distance themselves.

Guests are also encouraged to wear a face mask when entering the bar and stay within the party they came with.

“This year, we need to be a little more cautious in what we do. So, we’re trying to eliminate the standing room only and make sure everybody has a seat, and everyone can socially distance, but still have a good time, and a have a fun atmosphere,” Reynolds said.

As bars prepare for the crowds today, Reynolds said he hopes customers are understanding if they get turned away.