Covid-19: Here's When Massachusetts Bars Will No Longer Have To Serve Food

Massachusetts bar patrons will soon be able to raise a glass without raising a fork courtesy of new COVID-19 guidance provided by state lawmakers.

Massachusetts bars will soon no longer have to serve food with drinks.
Photo Credit: *Daily Voice Features Photo*

Zak Failla

04/30/2021 8:30 a.m.

Beginning on Saturday, May 29, the mandate requiring establishments serving alcohol to also serve food will be lifted as Massachusetts continues its recovery from the holiday wave of the virus.

Bars, beer gardens, breweries, wineries and distilleries will officially be allowed to reopen regardless if they serve food on site or partner with a food truck for the day to fulfill the state requirement.

As of May 29, those those facilities will be under the same guidance as restaurants, which requires only seated service with a 90-minute limit on customers or parties. Dance floors will still not be permitted.

In addition, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker announced that the maximum table size allowed at bars or restaurants is being increased from six to 10.

Beginning on Sunday, Aug. 1, dance clubs, nightclubs, fitness centers, ball pits, and indoor water parks will also be open to 100 percent capacity, though officials said that could be reviewed depending on the state’s progress in vaccinating residents.

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