Charcoal Group restaurants closing temporarily

Charcoal Group restaurants will be shutting their doors as of Monday, March 16 at 4 p.m.

It's to help control the spread of COVID-19.

“Watching the news today, obviously they didn't take the actions that we had anticipated. We huddled quickly, and still feel strongly, not providing an opportunity for the virus to continue spreading with the various stakeholders of our business … Although painful, was the right thing to do do.” Jody Palubiski, Partner and CEO of the Charcoal Group, told 570 NEWS.

Closing the restaurants during the pandemic will impact close to 1,000 employees.

Charcoal is now trying to help their workers with any Employment Insurance claims.

“We're in this situation where crowds, etc. are probably not the most prudent thing to be facilitating … we're looking at it, trying to make the best decision for our team members.” 

Palubiski adds, at this point, they don't have a timeline as to how long they'll have to keep their restaurants closed.

Charcoal operates restaurants including the Charcoal Steak House, Beertown, and The Bauer Kitchen.

Morty's Pub in Waterloo also announced Monday it is temporarily closing its doors due to the outbreak. 

The Duke of Wellington in Waterloo will be closing its dining room to the public, but will continue to offer food delivery as well as take out.

On Monday night, Fionn MacCool's in Kitchener confirmed it is closing its doors for the foreseeable future, meaning it will not be open for St. Patrick's Day.

Solé Restaurant and Wine Bar, Blackshop Restaurant, and the Melville Café are also closed effective Monday.

with files from Phi Doan