Famous Valley pizza restaurant reopens, but with way less seats for customers

MESA, Ariz. - The famous organ at Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa is making music again, and there are pizzas in the oven, but there will be some noticeable changes.

Among the changes is a drastic reduction in capacity.

"We are not self-seating anymore, so in order to accommodate the orders that we’re given, we have to reduce our seating capacity to 700 - 250," said the pizza restaurant's owner, Jack Barz.

The historic restaurant developed a 19-page proactive opening plan that, with many safety precautions, includes social distancing.

"Any area where there are long rows of tables like we have over here, we are going to be putting a six-foot cloth in there. separated by six feet," said Barz.

To check in, patrons will have to do so outside. If there is a wait, they will be asked to wait in their cars until they receive a text that their table is ready. In addition, customers will be given hand sanitizer upon entry.

Barz says they are taking the protocol seriously. Despite the changes, Barz says he’s excited to bring some entertainment into people's lives, especially during this time.

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