Bad weather has wreaked havoc on Ireland's outdoor dining plans with punters finding a pint or bite to eat in the lashing rain isn't all that comfortable.
Many parts of Ireland were a wash-out at the weekend while showers have cancelled plans so far this week again.
One such spot that had a recent evening ruined was Hugo’s Restaurant on Merrion Row, in Dublin City Centre.
The owners shared a video on Twitter showing manager Gina happily dancing in the rain in their large outdoor area, which was visibly empty due to the heavy rain.
The tweet was captioned: “If you didn’t laugh, you’d cry, all reservations and staff cancelled for tonight, yet again broken heart.”
And owner of Hugo’s, Gina Murphy, told The Mirror: “Irish weather is unpredictable, last Saturday I looked at four different weather apps, cancelled bookings, it didn't rain until 5pm, we were fully booked yesterday evening too, seven staff prepping food, getting ready, I spent two hours calling staff.
"When the weather is good it’s great to dine outside, but it’s difficult to run a business, we lost two days of trade Wednesday/Thursday, because of the rain, food went to waste, fresh crab and scallops, fresh food doesn’t perish.
"When dining people like comfort, it’s a little different with bars, I pay my staff whether it rains or not."
New public health measures that were issued by Failte Ireland to reflect government advice, stated from July 5th a maximum of six persons aged 13 or over per table in outdoor areas.
Under current legislation, management and employees in customer facing roles, who engage in or carry out work relating to the service of food and beverages for consumption on premises must continue to wear a face covering.
Businesses are expected to ensure that they implement the required measures, subject to the current Public Health advice.
Currently, indoor restaurant and bar services must be restricted to residents of paid tourism accommodation until Government restrictions are lifted.
