LAS VEAGAS (KTNV) — The Las Vegas Raiders weren’t the only winners Monday night as bars who just had the chance to reopen are celebrating a big win of their own.
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Anthony Brando, owner of Brando’s Sports Grill near Blue Diamond Road and Interstate 15, says Monday Night Football was a long awaited night of normalcy amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Bars were able to reopen hours before the game at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
“It was perfect timing for all of us,” says Brando. “The excitement from the community for the raiders, everyone wanted to see them play.”
Bars were expected to be full to watch Monday’s home opener at Allegiant Stadium, but only up to 50% capacity as mandated by state guidelines.
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“For a lot of other places that don’t serve food, but couldn’t survive so it was refreshing to at least get open and get that revenue flowing in,” says Brando.
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It was a similar story for Chris Scarpulla, owner of The Great American Pub near Flamingo Road and Interstate 215
“We waited for this for so long and we couldn’t wait to get to this point,” says Scarpulla.
Bars must also follow other safety protocols for guests including social distancing, and face coverings when not drinking and eating.
Monday’s game was also the highest rated Monday Night Football game watched in the past decade.
