Carmel-by-the-Sea talks closing street for take-out dining

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, Calif. (KION) The oven at La Bicyclette in Carmel-by-the-Sea is hot, once again. The restaurant opened for take-out for the first time, Friday. Now, they could have even more to look forward. to.

"We may have this wonderful idea, which totally ties into my European background," said La Bicyclette owner, Gaston Georis.

City of Carmel-by-the-Sea officials are proposing a new plan for one block of Dolores Street in downtown. It would mean closing the area down to traffic, but opening it up to businesses who are struggling to stay afloat.

"You can go to any restaurant anywhere in town, bring your food here, sit down and dine. That's the intent," said Carmel-by-the-Sea Mayor, Dave Potter.

Potter said tables will be spaced at a safe distance. Staff will be around to sanitize the area regularly and people won't be allowed to linger.

"There's no camping out here, but it will be opportunity to bring some urban life back to the street," said Potter.

For businesses like La Bicyclette, the possibility is big news. Georis was forced to lay off a number of employees. The same is true for other restaurants nearby.

"We built our business around people that we want to work with. When your friends and family members are suffering, there is no pleasant way to go through," said Seventh and Dolores Steakhouse executive chef, Todd Fisher.

Potter's plan could provide businesses some relief.

"It'll almost be like a scene out of great italian movie. Everybody spreads out, raises their glass of wine and celebrates the life that is still within our hearts," said Georis.

Potter plans to present the idea to city council next week. It will need their approval to move forward.