WINDSOR — New rules have been put in place to allow restaurants to sell beer, wine and spirits while Ontario deals with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario will now allow restaurants and bars in Ontario to temporarily sell alcohol with food takeout and delivery orders.
Only establishments with an existing liquor licence will be allowed to participate under the new rules.
Staff and delivery drivers must have completed Smart Serve training.
Matt Komsa is a co-owner of The Goat in LaSalle and in Lakeshore, as well as the Bull and Barrel and says the AGCO made the right decision.
"I think it's something that will help the restaurant business get through these times. I applaud the government and the AGCO for reacting quickly and helping the industry out," he says.
Komsa says it will take a few days for most places to roll out a plan.
"We'll see what our cost structure is and hiring a few drivers because all the drivers do have to have Smart Serve, which means third party delivery companies are probably out for now," added Komsa.
Grocery stores and liquor manufacturer retail stores are also temporarily allowed to sell alcohol as early as 7 a.m. to accommodate early shopping programs for vulnerable people.