Of all of the restaurants that temporarily shut down operations this year during the pandemic, the return of the Crystal Beer Parlor is probably the most anticipated return. They announced their return with a two minute video highlighting what you can expect from them for the forseeable future. But what else should you know before stopping by next week? Here’s a quick summary of my chat with CBP General Manager Paige Brown.
We know there is no indoor seating. All of it is under this tent. How big is this thing and how many will you seat?
PB: The tent is 40 feet by 80 feet. Capacity is 100 seats. Twenty five rounds of four. By comparison, our regular dining rooms (including the bar area) are about 150 seats.
What if I show up with a party of 8?
PB: We can accommodate a party of 8, of course. We can move two rounds closer together so you can be near your party.
Will any of the parking lot be available for guests to park their cars?
PB: Unfortunately not. There will be no parking on our property. We have this tent and two tents for waiting areas. That will take up all of our space. Our guests will be required to park around the neighborhood. (FYI Metered parking).
It’s still Summer in Savannah. It can get steamy out here. Will there be any fans around to cool anyone off?
PB: We will not have any fans set up.
But the Gift Shop (with AC) will be open?
PB: Yes. That will be open 11am-9pm as well, but we will be limiting the number of people allowed in the gift shop. Masks will be required any time you are on the property except seated at your table.
Outdoor seating in Savannah usually means someone is bringing a pet. Will you allow them?
PB: Right now we are not able to allow any pets in the dining area. Except for Service Animals, of course.
OK, now the fun stuff. You told us there will be a limited menu. Tell me some fan favorites that you will NOT be serving right now?
PB: We spent so much time, hours and hours, talking about the menu. What we could execute best and what people love, but we could not do it all. The biggest one that is not on the menu is probably the Hamburger Steak. Oh, and the Fried Oyster Sandwich.
From what you tell me though, I’m hearing you will still offer 85-90% of your menu?
PB: That’s sounds right. We will still do some of those popular dishes as specials here and there. Just not offered every day for now.
Take Out will be available through the door at Jones and Jefferson?
PB: That’s correct. If you phone ahead, you can pick up your food right inside the door. There will be a table set up for take out. If you walk up and place an to go order, you will need to step back outside onto the sidewalk to wait.
# # #
