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Closings in Doylestown force a new business model

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Gov. Tom Wolf’s decision to have all non-essential businesses close across the state and his action to close all bars and restaurants in Bucks, Montgomery, Allegheny, Chester and Delaware counties, in response to the novel corona virus, has dramatically disrupted life.

In Doylestown, where there are many popular bars and restaurants, the abrupt closures have seen business owners’ move to online ordering, curbside pickups and deliveries in an effort to generate some revenue during the pandemic.

The Hattery Stove & Still on West State Street, closed for a “deep cleaning and sanitation,” saying “we anticipate reopening Tuesday for curbside pick-up,” in an announcement.

The restaurant 86 West, is offering its full sushi and regular menus for online ordering and pickup, along with beer and wine, by the bottle, Tuesday – Saturday, from noon until 8 p.m. Bagel Barrel has local deliveries and pickup. The Japanese restaurant, Ooka has takeout between noon and 8:30 p.m. While the Pineville Tavern is closed for in-house dining, it’s offering free delivery within 10 miles.

Chambers 19, a restaurant and bar on North Main Street, has closed, but before doing so, it offered free meals for needy families or for those who help those who are struggling with food insecurity.

Retailers, such as Monkey’s Uncle, a retro/vintage-inspired clothing store on East State Street, is closed until further notice, but has free shipping for online orders. Numerous other shops, cafes and stores are also closed, including the Doylestown Bookshop.

However, Glenda Childs, owner of the bookstore on South Main Street, said the store is taking web orders, providing local deliveries and curbside service at its back door. “We hope our customers will continue to support us,” she added.

All branches of the Bucks County Free Library are closed until March 29, when officials will reevaluate the latest news on COVID-19. Fine accruals have been suspended and due dates adjusted, according to the libray.

In the art world, the James A. Michener Art Museum has closed, saying, in a statement, “We pride ourselves on serving the community as a place of information, relaxation and refuge ... it comes with great sadness that we are closing until March 30.”

The County Theater is closed, as is the Mercer Museum. “We hope to reschedule as many events as possible and will share details as soon as they are available,” said the movie theater, in an announcement.

Peddler’s Village, the shopping complex in Lahaska, has closed its bars and restaurants and let shop owners decide if they will stay open. Most are closed, according to Peddler’s Village website. The Golden Plough hotel is opening March 20. Giggleberry Fair is closed.


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