It’s been a long, trying few months for the restaurant industry across the nation. But many are feeling a sense of relief now that dining rooms can open at restricted capacity in North Carolina. These business owners certainly have a difficult road ahead playing catch-up but having the option to safely accommodate diners will hopefully start that process now.

If you’re looking forward to dining in at your favorite restaurant in the coming weeks, please keep in mind that patience is key. Only 50 percent capacity is allowed, and dining parties must be seated six feet apart.

Many locations are currently only accepting reservations to help control the crowds. Top-notch sanitation processes are also being practiced at most businesses. It’s also worth mentioning that wearing a mask is recommended when you go out in public but is not required.

On the flip side, a large handful of restaurants are choosing not to open their doors to diners just yet. Instead, they will continue to practice takeout and delivery services (if applicable) until they feel prepared to resume in-person dining.

Ready to head out? Here are a few options to make your choice easier.

Kid Cashew (1608 East Blvd.) is now welcoming diners and still offering takeout and delivery.

Bonterra (1608 East Blvd.) is now welcoming diners and still offering takeout. Call 704-333-9463 to make a reservation.

Yafo’s three locations (720 Governor Morrison Street, #120 | 1331 Central Ave. #101 | 1231A East Blvd) are now welcoming diners and still offering curbside service and delivery.

Bistro la Bon’s two locations  (1322 Central Avenue and 274 S. Sharon Amity Road) are now welcoming diners and still offering takeout and delivery.

Fahrenheit (222 S. Caldwell Street, 21st Floor) is now welcoming diners and still offering takeout and delivery. Call 980-237-5718 to make a reservation or reserve on OpenTable.

204 North (204 North Tryon Street) is now welcoming diners.

The Asbury (235 North Tryon Street ) is now welcome diners for breakfast, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Dressler’s two locations (1100 Metropolitan Avenue #125 and 8630 Lindholm Drive in Huntersville) are now welcoming diners and still offering online ordering and curbside pickup.

The Porter’s House (7417 Waverly Walk Avenue) is now welcoming diners and still offering online ordering, curbside pickup, and delivery.

Flour Shop (530 Brandywine Road) is now welcoming diners and accepting reservations through Open Table.

Dogwood (4905 Ashley Park Lane) is now welcoming diners and still offering curbside pickup.

Fin & Fino (135 Levine Avenue of the Arts, #100) is now welcoming diners and still offering curbside pickup.

The Goodyear House (3032 N. Davidson Street) is now welcoming diners and still offering delivery. Reserve a table on OpenTable.

The Waterman (2729 South Blvd., Suite D) is now welcoming diners and still offering takeout.