3 Guys And A Stove will reopen this evening after the restaurant had closed to undergo some deep cleaning when it learned that a patron who had dined there tested positive for COVID-19.
On Sunday, August 9, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit alerted owner-chef Jeff Suddaby that a customer who had dined at the restaurant on Aug. 2 was confirmed to have COVID-19.
“We were not required to close, but I believe this was the right thing to do,” said Suddaby in a statement released the morning of Aug. 15. “The goal was to suspend service until all staff members could be tested. We have taken advantage of this opportunity to give the restaurant another deep-clean. When we reopen it will be with confidence and a feeling of well-being for all. Our approach to managing the business during the pandemic has been proactive since the beginning and it meant a lot to see the recognition of that from the health unit and the media.”
In his weekly briefing on Aug. 11, Dr. Charles Gardner, SMDHU’s medical officer of health, said that at that time there was no known community transmission of the virus associated with the visitors.
The 3 Guys statement didn’t indicate if all staff members had received negative test results, but as of Aug. 14 the SMDHU’s COVID statistics did not note any new infections in the Huntsville area. The last positive test result reported for residents in the Huntsville area was on July 13.
The infected patron was part of a group of about 30 people staying at Deerhurst Resort. Eleven of them tested positive for COVID-19.
Today’s statement from 3 Guys referenced the restaurant’s long-standing commitment to the local business community, events and charities, an effort that has been reciprocated by the community during the pandemic, it noted.
“The support we have received from both our local community and seasonal residents has been absolutely fantastic,” said Suddaby. “Simcoe Muskoka Public Health has been outstanding in their communication, resources and speed of testing. Our whole team is very grateful to our public health workers and everyone who has stood beside us through this challenging time.”
Suddaby added that staff “are excited to re-open this weekend and I want to focus on a safe and enjoyable dining experience for our customers and our staff.”
3 Guys And A Stove will reopen today at 5:00 p.m.
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