Houston Republic

Texas bars are struggling to survive during the pandemic but one manager said her employer has changed their business model in order to legally open.

“This has worked well for us,” said Denise McCarthy, office manager for the Eagle Houston bar now turned eatery.

The Eagle Houston bar reopened Sept 10 after obtaining a food and beverage (FB) license instead of a mixed beverage (MB) license.

“We purchased our own food trailer,” McCarthy told the Houston Republic. 

As previously reported, Gov. Greg Abbott shuttered Texas bars on the same day that he postponed plans to reopen the state's economy because COVID-19 cases were on the rise in late June.

“With an FB license we are now at 50% occupancy,” McCarthy said in an interview.

According to the executive order, all bars and similar establishments that receive more than 51% of their gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages were expected to close unless remaining open for in-person dining.

“The amount of money that all business owners have lost due to his restrictions is enormous,” McCarthy said. “Many are losing their entire life savings trying to stay afloat and many are not making it. They are now left with no business, career or savings. It's devastating.”  

The Lone Star Standard reported on Sept. 21 that Abbott allowed retail stores to open to 75% occupancy but not 51% bar owners.

Under the new orders, occupancy levels were increased for restaurants, retail stores, office buildings, manufacturing facilities, gyms, exercise facilities and classes, museums and libraries.

“Most all staff is back on schedule,” McCarthy said. “Since the new guidelines require us to set up the floorplan and serve as a restaurant, if bar staff would like more hours, they are offered server positions in addition to their bartender position. We are staying within the proper guidelines and continue with our FB license.”