“Without having this temporary patio set up, it probably would have been a lot worse for us,” said Bob Yiannakoulias, owner of the Overflow Café.“Basically approved the same day as long as the patio didn’t require the patio to move out into the road,” said Jeff Chase from the city.
The change led to a major increase in temporary patios. In 2019, 23 restaurants had them, but more than 100 businesses, including some retail stores, had them in 2020. Most of those businesses reported an increase in business.“Our businesses are still trying to figure out what Edmontonians’ appetite is for winter patios, quite frankly,” said Cherie Klassen of the Old Strathcona Business Association.
Klassen says businesses will not be allowed to have patios that extend onto the road because of concerns about snow and ice clearing.But even with the reduced space, and space being needed for heaters and windbreaks, Yiannakoulias said he’s in. “One option is to sit and kind of try and make it through this, and one is to try and thrive,” he said.With files from CTV News Edmonton's Jeremy Thompson
Eating I below zero weather or curling up in warm building at home with a home cooked meal? No contest. Home it is.
Close the street down... Create skating rinks, heat zones.. and sure.. it'll draw people .. can't say it'll be paying customers however, and doniveson wouldn't do anything to enforce or protect business owners
As long as it's not -30, or snow is not piling up on my food, I would winter patio eat.
Beaver tails and 12 variations of hot chocolate on the menu.
Maybe a drive thru would be worth the investment?