Closed pubs in Stockholm get another chance

The environmental management in Stockholm has booked new inspections at Carmen and Raw Sushi & Bowl at Södermalm, which are two of the five pubs that were forced to close on Sunday.

- They have asked us to go there and make a visit tomorrow, Tuesday. The inspectors should look at the measures they have said they have taken, and make an assessment of whether they are fulfilled or not, says Kristine Fornander, Head of Department at the Environmental Management in Stockholm.

The assessment is forwarded to the Stockholm Infection Protection Unit, which decides whether the taverns should be allowed to open again.

Raw Sushi & Bowls owner Nino Armoni says that seating has been limited to only three to four to reduce congestion, that clear markings have been set up to keep distance, and that a maximum of four customers should be queued at the same time to order food.

- We should try to avoid people being crowded. We have a fantastic concept, but a small one. We must adapt to the corona situation, says Armoni.

He is optimistic about the possibility of opening the restaurant again.

- We will get permission tomorrow. We saved the situation very quickly, says Armoni.

Carmen's owner Ümit Pektas told TT on Sunday that there has been a refurbishment and that several tables and chairs have been removed.

There are still no planned post-checks of the other pubs that were forced to close: Charles Dickens, The Central Bar on Folkungagatan and International Bar. TT has sought representatives of the pubs.