Bradenton restaurant temporarily closes after employee tests positive for COVID-19

Management of Tom’s Bad Ass Bar and Grill in downtown Bradenton has decided to temporarily close the restaurant after an employee tested positive for COVID-19, according to a post from the restaurant on Facebook.

“We take your safety and the safety of our employees very seriously,” the post said. “Until all staff have tested negative and we have had our restaurant professionally cleaned and sanitized, we will remain closed. Thank you for your understanding.”

Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation does not require restaurants to close when an employee tests positive for the coronavirus. Nor are restaurants required to disclose the information to the public.

However, many restaurant owners around the state are opting to be transparent about the situation with customers.

Locally, Tom’s is not the first restaurant to temporarily close after an employee tested positive for COVID-19.

The Sea Hut in Palmetto and Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe took the same step last month, both restaurants notifying the public through social media.

Anna Maria Oyster Bar management opted not to close when staff members tested positive at two locations, but management disclosed the information to the public and outlined safety measures in place at the restaurants to prevent the spread of the virus.

As COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Florida, diners may be rethinking eating out entirely. Health experts continue to advise that takeout and to-go are very low risk options for enjoying food from a favorite restaurant.

This story was originally published July 14, 2020 at 4:01 PM.