Metro Detroit Restaurants and Bars Temporarily Close Amid Novel Coronavirus Outbreak #DetroitFood

Marble Bar in Detroit is closed indefinitely due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. | Gerard + Belevender

A growing number of local food businesses including Marble Bar and Chen’s Noodle are temporarily shutting down operations

States across the U.S. moved rapidly this week to try to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus outbreak. Michigan saw its cases grow from just two on March 10 to 12 confirmed cases by March 13. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has called for citizens to be extra vigilant with handwashing and to avoid large gatherings of more than 100 people. On the evening of March 12, schools across the state were ordered to close through April 5. The state is currently making arrangements to ensure that students who rely on meal programs still receive the food they need.

While the measures being taken are necessary to help protect vulnerable populations at increased risk from the virus, fears over coronavirus are already taking a toll on the food industry which has experienced a flood of catering and events cancellations over the past few weeks. Some are increasing the frequency of their already fastidious cleaning regimens and others are adjusting their formats to serve customers carryout or delivery-only. A few are making the difficult decision to shut down operations entirely — a significant measure that will impact not only the businesses but the livelihoods of hourly employees and tipped workers.

Below, Eater is keeping track of the temporary closures connected to the novel coronavirus outbreak. Please reach out at detroit@eater.com if you have information regarding the impact of the virus on a business or would like to be added to this list.

Temporary Closings:

• Chen’s Noodle (Madison Heights): This Chinese restaurant on John R. Road is closed through March 26, according to a recording on Chen’s answering machine.
• Marble Bar (Detroit): This bar and nightclub is closed until further notice in an effort to reduce exposure to the virus.
• Detroit Zen Center/Living Zen Organics (Hamtramck): Detroit Zen Center shut down all operations through April 11 including meditation classes and production of its Living Zen Organics line of products.

• All Closings Coverage [ED]
• All Coronavirus Coverage [ED]

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