Popular restaurant Las Olas closes after reopening for just two days

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida – Photos tell why a popular spot in South Florida reopened on Friday but closed on Sunday.

Most people without masks gathered at the Wharf at 20 West Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale for its reopening.

The alfresco dining, drinking and music establishment had plenty of people standing and sitting side by side this weekend – social distancing and the use of masks was absent amid the excessively large crowd.

On Saturday, Broward County code enforcement officers visited the facility three times.

Broward County Mayor Steve Geller said owners need to be responsible for what happens in their establishments.

“If they are unable to control the conduct of their customers, unfortunately, we will have to shut them down,” Geller said.

Local 10 learned that the owners of The Wharf had been cited and ordered to be closed for 24 hours, but on Sunday the company went further by announcing an extended temporary closure.

On social media, The Wharf said they were closing due to a spike in cases and local regulations.

“We will reopen when we are able to provide you with the appropriate experience in our beautiful outdoor location. Stay safe and stay tuned. “

Nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has come under intense scrutiny during the pandemic. Some business owners enforce county rules while others take a back seat.

Governor Ron DeSantis’ decision to ease most coronavirus restrictions is complicating enforcement. On Fort Lauderdale beach this weekend, the annual airshow drew crowds, and although signs said masks were needed, some people did not follow the lead.

After the two-day shows, bars along Fort Lauderdale’s A1A were also packed.

Republican Congressman Mario Diaz Balart (R-FL) appeared in Local 10 “This Week in South Florida” on Sunday and said a federally backed mask mandate would not receive his support .

“I think a national mask mandate would be a bit absurd, because there are huge differences in different areas. I wear my mask as much as I can and I think it makes sense to do it, it’s an ounce of prevention, ”he says.