NYC Suspends Roadside Dining Today Due to Massive Snowstorm

For the second time in just over a month, NYC has hit the pause button on roadside dining due to a massive snowstorm that is expected to dump up to 24 inches of snow on the city by the end of today. The temporary ban — which only applies to roadside outdoor seating and not sidewalk seating — will remain in place for the rest of the day, and roadside dining is expected to resume tomorrow, according to the mayor’s office.

Restaurants can also continue takeout and delivery services, though the mayor’s office has issued a winter weather emergency declaration for the city that started at 6 a.m. today and restricts non-essential travel. Grocery store, restaurant, and delivery workers are all exempt from these restrictions (so if you do get delivery today, be sure to tip the restaurant and delivery workers generously).

The last snow-related outdoor dining pause occurred on Wednesday, December 15, and lasted through the next day. This time too, the city has not issued the stronger of the two snow-related outdoor dining measures, meaning restaurants aren’t required to remove any structures or barriers at this time.

In other news

— Chef Simone Tong’s lauded West Village restaurant Silver Apricot is making a two-week return starting Thursday. The restaurant is currently hibernating but will return on February 4 with a four-course, six-dish tasting menu in celebration of Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day. Reservations are recommended.

— Nolita’s the Garret Coctelería has launched a new pop-up, following a successful holiday version in December. Winter in the Tropics, as the pop-up is called, features 52 heated outdoor seats, hot and cold cocktails, nachos, and more. The pop-up runs till March 31.

— NYC vegan hotshot By Chloe — which filed for bankruptcy protection in December — is looking to attract diners with a fan favorite. Starting February 5, the popular beet burger will return to the menu at all locations and remain through the month of February.

— Naples pizza legend Gino Sorbillo’s Bowery outpost is being replaced by an “artisanal neighborhood pizzeria.”

— All of us right now: