More than 16,000 restaurants and bars in Michigan are now closed for dine-in service in effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.
On Monday, March 16, Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered the closure, along with clubs, movie theaters, gyms and a number of other indoor and outdoor venues.
Businesses are bracing for the economic hit.
Johnny Vlahakis, general manager at El Azteco restaurant in East Lansing said the restaurant has 50 employees right now.
“This is our slow season," Vlahakis said. "We’re right in the beginning of where we start hiring to ramp up for our summer season, which is our busy season where we get up to 110 or 115 employees."
Vlahakis said the outbreak will have a "big hit" on hiring.
The order does not bar businesses from continuing takeout, delivery, or curbside services.
