Update: We just received word from Wood Tavern that they will reopen their outdoor patio tonight, February 22 -- just in time for the weekend. Here's a message from owner Cesar Morales:
"I am ecstatic to say we can open the beer garden. To show our appreciation for everyones support today from 5:30-7:00 FREE tacos and open bar (house liquors only)."
With the busy weekend coming up, Wood Tavern has announced that its oversize and convivial outdoor space will be closed until further notice -- at least through the long Presidents' Day weekend.
The popular Wynwood bar has, apparently, been having permitting issues since opening in 2011, and yesterday the City of Miami fire inspector told owner Cesar Morales that he could not open the patio.
Morales issued the following statement on the tavern's Facebook page:
"Hey Everyone,I am not sure where to begin other than to get right to it. Since
December of 2011 we have tried to get all the proper permitting for the
outside part of Wood (ALL of the outside) and its now Feb of 2013 and we
have not been able to. Many reasons as to why but no need to get into
detail. This morning the Fire Inspector came and told us that we could
NOT open the back part of Wood. I have a meeting tomorrow morning with
the Chief to see if we can open while we finish the permitting
processing. Other than that I don't know what to say other than I am
deeply saddened by not being able to open and hope that everyone is
patient with us while we get through this rough patch. The inside bar
will be open as usual." - Cesar Morales
Morales later updated Facebook to note that the fire inspector didn't come into his office today, so Tuesday is the earliest Wood Tavern can get the green light to resume outside service.
With this weekend's weather forecast calling for showers and temperatures dipping into the mid-40s in the evenings, this might not affect business for the bar because many drinkers would likely opt to remain indoors, though this Sunday's Backyard Boogie event has been canceled.
Short Order will keep you posted on updates and let you know when the patio reopens.
Update: Wood Tavern's Facebook page has the following update:
"The Fire Chief was very helpful and he is working with us. We have some paper work we need to do and trying to reopen the back this Thursday."
Update x2: We just received word from Wood Tavern that they will reopen their outdoor patio tonight, February 22 -- just in time for the weekend. Here's a message from owner Cesar Morales:
"I am ecstatic to say we can open the beer garden. To show our
appreciation for everyones support today from 5:30-7:00 FREE tacos and
open bar (house liquors only)."
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