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Due to a water main break earlier in the day*, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control has issued a "Boil Water Advisory" for the downtown area. Emergency guidelines for restaurants include the following recommendations:
1. Stop using appliances and equipment that use drinkable water, such as dish machines,ice machines, fountainheads, drinking fountains, tea brewers and coffee makers.
2. Use disposable paper, plastic or foam plates, cups, forks, etc.
3. Prepare food using water that has been boiled.
4. Wash hands with water that has been boiled and cooled.
5. Wash, rinse and sanitize pots, pans and other equipment with water that has been boiled and cooled
Some restaurants, like Monza, are taking precautions and forging ahead, while others, like Barsa and Fish, are closing because of safety concerns. Before heading out to any restaurants/bars tonight, it's recommended to call ahead to see if they are open.
[*Update] As of 7:20 a.m., Wednesday, July 1, the Charleston Water System declared the downtown water safe to drink — restaurants may go back to normal business.
