Pittsburgh Restaurant's New Vaccination Policy Causes Uproar

Eric Heyl
·2 min read

PITTSBURGH, PA — The backlash was immediate when the Square Cafe in East Liberty began requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination to dine there. The new policy, announced on the popular restaurant's Facebook page, drew hundreds of vitriolic responses as well as more measured messages of support from those who supported the move.

The policy was implemented on Monday, when the cafe reopened for in-person dining.

"Out of an abundance of caution and care for our staff and guests, we are now requiring proof of vaccination to dine with us," the Facebook post stated. "In order to keep our doors open and everyone protected, this is the best course of action for our community. Thank you for your continued patronage and understanding during this time."

Criticism of the policy began instantly.

"We won’t be coming back to a place that discriminates," Erin Noele commented on the post. "If you look back, anyone saying 'show me your papers' has been squarely on the wrong side of history."

"Whether vaccinated or not, I wouldn’t step one foot into any establishment that finds discrimination somehow virtuous," Maria Bocchiaro wrote. "Absolutely disgusting."

Offered Kristin Schafer-Lyons: "Hope no one comes to eat there and you have to permanently close."

Many complimented the restaurant for requiring the vaccination proof.

"Forget all of these haters - especially the ones comparing it to the Holocaust," Stephanie Prince wrote. "For God’s sake, we are in a pandemic and it’s people like these haters that keep this country in danger."

Offered Terri Hunt: "I'm glad you're being responsible and doing what's needed to keep your staff safe and be able to reopen. The community will stick by you."

Stacie Hazlett wrote, "As a parent that lost their son to COVID-19. (before the vaccine was

available). We will be there this weekend to support you, and your rights. And for doing what is best for you and your staff."

Square Cafe owner Sherree Goldstein told WTAE-TV that the negative reactions were "gut-wrenching."

"It made me feel so sad and hurt," she said.

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This article originally appeared on the Pittsburgh Patch