Staff at Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk Rock N’ Roll Steakhouse announced Monday night that they will temporarily close, per a city order that all bars on Lower Broadway must shut down.
This, even though the Steakhouse owner originally said he would defy that order.
As The Tennessee Star reported, on Sunday members of the Metropolitan Board of Health of Nashville and Davidson County declared a public health emergency that forced business owners to either close their doors or limit capacity. Bars on Lower Broadway and throughout Davidson County must close until further notice.
“In cooperation with the Mayor’s office, Tootsie’s, Honky Tonk Central and Kid Rock’s Honky Tonk have closed to help protect public health. Rippy’s and The Diner will operate under the guidelines set forth for restaurants and take precautions to keep our staff and patrons safe,” according to Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk and Rock n’ Roll Steakhouse Facebook page.
“We hope to continue working with local officials to minimize the hardship this puts on our over 800 staff members and 300+ musicians. Stay tuned to our social pages for any updates.”
Staff did not respond to The Star’s requests for comment Monday.
Steve Smith. the owner of the restaurant and several other area establishments, originally refused to follow the city order. In an initial statement distributed to news outlets, he called the mayor’s order “unconstitutional:”
We appreciate the efforts of Mayor Cooper to combat the COVID-19 virus, but unless there’s a statewide mandate that directs all bars and restaurants to be closed, the request made by Mayor Cooper is unconstitutional as he is targeting a select group of businesses.”
We are compassionate with those who have contracted the COVID-19 coronavirus and all who are helping to manage the crisis as the entire world addresses the outbreak. However, a Tootsie’s patron as immediate as last night, mentioned having lived through the polio epidemic and didn’t recall such extreme measures being handed down in history.
In response, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, Rippy’s, Honky Tonk Central, Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk & Steakhouse and The Diner will continue to remain open to serve the public until such statewide mandate is issued from the Governor of Tennessee.
According to the city’s website, per the public health emergency declaration, restaurants must limit their regular maximum seating to under 50 percent of capacity, capped at no more than 100 individuals allowed. Restaurant owners must also limit their bar service to 50 percent of capacity with no standing allowed.
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Chris Butler is an investigative journalist at The Tennessee Star. Follow Chris on Facebook. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk Rock n’ Roll Steakhouse” by Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk Rock n’ Roll Steakhouse.
