Signs Are Pointing To NJ Indoor Dining Returning Before Mid-September

I was literally just talking moments ago to a friend about how strange these last 5 months have been.

On one hand, it feels like the end of August arrived in the blink of an eye. On the other hand, though, it feels like an eternity since most of us last ate inside a restaurant.

Restaurant owners and customers alike have hit the peak of frustration, but for the first time, we're getting indications than an end may be in sight to the prohibition on indoor dining.

This morning, our Townsquare New Jersey News team reported on Governor Murphy's announcement that gyms will be allowed to reopen in less than a week, with Tuesday, September 1st named as the target date to allow fitness centers to welcome customers back, albeit in smaller groups.

At the same press conference, the governor was asked about indoor dining, with word having spread that restaurants may be allowed to reopen their dining rooms by September 14th.

In response to the question, Governor Murphy said, "I hope that we've got some indoor dining before then," but also cautioned that there still is not a date that's been set in stone.

The drumbeat is growing louder from restaurant owners, customers, and even local officials for the rules to finally be eased as New Jersey continues to make strides in efforts to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

Once a specific date is announced for the resumption of indoor dining in New Jersey, we'll be sure to report it right here.