Oyster Oyster is one of a handful of companies that would like a boost from its dining guests and staff. Photo by Rey Lopez.
Many indoor venues throughout DC – from restaurants to gyms to theaters – will require guests ages 12 and older to show they have received at least one Covid vaccine shot by January 15th. Documentation for full vaccination will be required by February 15th. a handful of companies go a step beyond the official rules by requiring customers to also show proof of booster shots.
“We’re always just looking at the data that’s out there, and it just seemed like the first round of shots was not as effective compared to these new variants. [the] space, and it is the safest environment for our staff and our guests, if everyone is as protected as possible, if we want to continue operations, ”says Oyster Oyster chef / co-owner Rob Rubba. His veg-centered Shaw restaurant has already checked vaccination records, but will begin asking diners for booster documentation when it returns from a January 11 winter break. The staff has already received boosters, which Rubba notes was more the result of like-minded individuals than a demand.
Rubba says the requirement is a bit lighter for a restaurant that only reserves reservations, like Oyster Oyster, which is already in touch with diners in advance about dietary restrictions and other expectations. “There’s already a good dialogue, so we do not catch anyone when they come to the restaurant,” he says. The restaurant has also cut its capacity down to less than 30 seats at any given time to allow for more social distancing.
The list of places with similar policies is still quite small: Sweet Science Coffee in NoMa is already asking guests sitting indoors to show that they are fully vaccinated and boosted, or fully vaccinated with a negative Covid test within 24 hours. In the meantime, Vida Fitness will require boosters in their fitness centers and beauty / health services (Bang Salon, Aura Spa) from 31 January.
Booster mandates may become more widespread throughout DC in the coming weeks and months. Mayor Muriel Bowers has already said the city will soon require all government employees, contractors, grant recipients and trainees to have booster shots without the possibility of testing.
Do you know other companies that need boosters? Email jsidman@washingtonian.com.
Food editor
Jessica Sidman covers the people and trends behind DC’s food and drink scene. Before you join Washingtonian in July 2016, she was Food Editor and Young & Hungry columnist on the Washington City Paper. She is from Colorado and is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania.
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