2 Groton Restaurants Impacted By Rising COVID Numbers

GROTON, CT — Two Groton restaurants are making changes due to rising COVID-19 case numbers, according to NBC CT. Paul's Pasta Shop announced on its Facebook page that starting Sunday, they would only be open for take out.

"Unfortunately...With the recent rise in numbers in not just our state, but our town we have decided to transition back to TAKE OUT ONLY," the shop wrote. "We will no longer be seating in our dining room, until further notice for the safety of our employees as well as our customers."

Owner Paul Fidrych told NBC CT that this was a particularly difficult decision to make because the holidays are an important time for the business. The shop recently had a small COVID-19 outbreak when, combined with rising numbers in the state, caused Fidrych to make the call.

Groton Pizza Palace closed Saturday and will reopen Dec. 19.

"With 75% of our staff sidelined by Covid or contact tracing, we have to face reality and close from December 11-19th," the restaurant wrote on its Facebook page.

Two people initially tested positive for the virus. Then the whole staff was tested, with several more positive tests being returned, according to NBC CT. Owner Jim Lampos said it was better to err on the side of caution and temporarily close.