Outdoor Dining Coming To Rochester

This is a wonderful step to get more people to visit one of the great downtowns in the area.

Rochester is joining the list of cities and towns that are allowing restaurants to let their patrons sit outdoors and enjoy the downtown experience.

It's a great way to revitalize the downtown area and not only attract diners, but restauranteers who can see the benefit of setting up shop in a wonderful downtown.

How this came about is published at Fosters.com:

The outdoor dining ordinance, adopted in January, sets parameters on ways downtown businesses may set up tables and chairs outdoors, in areas like sidewalks or behind a restaurant. Previously, there were no rules other than a restriction on outdoor furniture blocking the sidewalks. Under the new ordinance, there is also an option for businesses to apply to have enclosed spaces allowing them to serve alcohol outdoors.

There have been a few establishments that have already made plans for outdoor seating this summer, including Revolution Taproom & Grill.

This is a great idea and here's hoping that more eateries in Rochester take part. The downtown has a lot to offer, and I'm looking forward to Rochester becoming a dining destination on the level of Portsmouth, Dover and Somersworth!