New Philadelphia Outdoor Dining Laws Exclude Most Restaurants

In an opinion piece for Philadelphia Magazine, Mike Strauss, co-owner of two Philadelphia restaurants, denounces the city’s updates to outdoor dining rules that, according to Strauss, “made it impossible for most restaurants to meet the requirements by the January 9th deadline.” According to Strauss, “When the city made the outdoor dining program permanent, it felt like they were telling us: ‘We are here to help, but only 10 percent of you.’”

As Strauss points out, other cities are treating the issue differently. “In New York City, the city has spent over a year speaking with legislative groups, neighborhood associations and businesses (not just restaurants) to come up with a program that could benefit small businesses while addressing concerns over traffic safety and accessibility.” But as cities decide the future of these programs, restaurant owners in other cities have experienced similar sticker shock when new requirements were issued.

Strauss stresses the importance of vibrant public spaces, including outdoor dining. As he puts it, “Philly is a great place to visit not because it’s a great place to park. Seeing people outside — enjoying themselves, laughing, eating — is much better than staring at cars.” Research bears this out, indicating that outdoor dining and open streets boost local business and economic activity.