Streatery
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A streatery, or streetery (alternative spelling), is an outdoor dining area (or eatery), typically located on sidewalks or in on-street parking.[1][2][3] The word streatery is a portmanteau of street and eatery.[2] Their construction varies by business, depending on needs and local regulations; some provide cover from the elements and a decretive floor, others are simply barricaded dining areas.[2][3]
History
[edit]Streateries took off during the COVID-19 pandemic, when regulations favored outdoor seating options.[4] Though most of these pandemic programs were originally temporary, many cities found success in their programs and kept them after pandemic restrictions eased, often with a more permanent facelift.[4][5] While pandemic streateries were often nothing more than traffic barriers and chairs, post-pandemic streateries often are built structures which usually extend the sidewalk onto previously on-street parking spaces.[3]
Reception
[edit]Proponents of streateries say they provide much needed restaurant space and lower the barriers of entry for restaurants and small businesses.[2] They also speak about the more lively and walkable environment streateries foster.[2][6]
Opponents argue that they are unsightly and take up parking space.[7]
References
[edit]- ↑ Zimmer, Ben. "Streatery: Pandemic Dining on Asphalt Gets Its Own Name". The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved June 1, 2023.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "What are 'Streateries' and Why They're Good for Urban Trees and Greenspace". caseytrees.org. August 3, 2020. Retrieved June 1, 2023.
- 1 2 3 "Outdoor Seating Guide" (PDF). raleighnc.gov. Retrieved June 1, 2023.
- 1 2 "Raleigh City Council votes to make 'streetery' dining more permanent". www.jconline.com. Retrieved June 1, 2023.
- ↑ "'Streateries' an urban treat moving closer to reality in Lafayette". abc11.com. March 15, 2022. Retrieved June 1, 2023.
- ↑ "Streeteries Are Exploding, Changing How Businesses Use Their Parking Real Estate". nar.realtor. October 2, 2020. Retrieved June 1, 2023.
- ↑ Weiner, Rachel; Carman, Tim (November 12, 2025). "After five years, D.C. streateries hit with higher costs and more rules". The Washington Post. Retrieved November 15, 2025.