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Some Athens Businesses Close (Again) Due To COVID-19

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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) — Some restaurants, bars, and coffee shops in uptown Athens have closed again after the steady rise of COVID-19 cases in the county. 

Several of these establishments reported on social media that at least one employee tested positive for the virus. 

COVID-19 data since the pandemic began for Athens County as of July 9, 2020 [Ohio Dept. of Health]
Casa Nueva Restaurant and Cantina announced its closure on its Facebook page Wednesday after an employee tested positive that day. Donkey Coffee announced Thursday it would close for the time being after a barista had a positive COVID-19 test result. HangOverEasy reported Thursday an employee tested positive. The restaurant will reopen Saturday, July 11 for takeout and DoorDash orders only. The Pigskin Bar and Grille has closed after an employee tested positive for the virus, as has Fluff Bakery and Catering. 

Lucky’s Sports Tavern announced Friday it would close temporarily, and said Saturday a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.

A number of Facebook users commented on these posts, commending the establishments for their transparency.

“Hoping for the best and appreciate your honesty,” Chris Innis wrote on Casa’s post.

“Was here yesterday… would have enjoyed my cold brew a little more if I knew it would be my last for a while,” Madeline Kramer posted on Donkey’s announcement. “Wishing a speedy recovery to your employee!”

Several people criticized Donkey Coffee for not mandating that its customers wear masks when it reopened.

“Shocker–a business does not require masks and would prefer to put their employees at risk rather than asking guests to be considerate and safe,” Sierra Ginsbach wrote.

Jackie O’s Brewery has also closed its patio and Public House dining room for the time being. Bagel Street Deli said it is closing for at least two weeks. 

Tony’s Tavern had planned to open Thursday, but is remaining closed until further notice. Red Brick Tavern is also temporarily closing, as is The CI. 

“Thank you for doing what’s safe for Athens,” Natalie Jendrzejewski commented on Red Brick’s Facebook post.

Athens County has 167 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of Sunday, July 12; 130 of these cases are active.

WOUB News will continue to update this story as more information is made available.