Pune: In view of the night curfew, New Year celebrations can be held before 11 pm. After state government has banned mass gatherings in clubs, pubs, restaurants or in similar places from December 30 to January 6, people might be wondering till what time restaurants and cafes will remain open.

We have an answer to this.

Restaurants, bars, pubs and cafes in Pune will remain open till 11 pm, however, if you are planning to visit any of the establishments for dinner on New Year's eve be sure that you place your order before 10.30 pm. That's right, amid the night curfew beginning at 11 pm, all restaurants have been advised to take the last order by 10.45 pm.

Ganesh Shetty, President, Pune Restaurants and Hoteliers Association (PRHA), said, "After remaining shut for three months, the government had permitted the restaurants to open in June but only for takeaway and home delivery services, since months the sector is affected badly. Generally, December 25-January 1 is the festive season where the revenue is generated over Rs 15 crore during the period but this year due to COVID-19 spread, we have to burden the heavy losses.

"No restaurants are arranging for big bash this year amid night curfew. Thus, restaurants will get closed as per the guidelines issued by the government. Thus, customers can place their last order before 10.30 pm on New Year's eve," he added.

The night curfew will be observed, due to which all food orders will be closed by 10:30 pm.

Rishu Baweja, MD, The Cult said, "We at the restaurant are already following strict rules in keeping the fun going and making sure all patrons are safe. For guests and staff, rules remain the same - every entry will have a temperature check and social distance will be maintained, at all times. Wearing a mask is mandatory all through the evening. The management takes precautionary measures seriously and thus anyone not following the rules will be excused from the club. We all want to have a good time and make the most of the time we get with friends."

Hit badly by the COVID-19 crisis, the restaurant sector in the city is finding itself stressed during New Year's eve. The last fortnight of the year brings the pubs and restos a big crowd of their annual revenues but many outlets are witnessing lukewarm response from their customers amid restrictions on seating capacities and operation timings.