Designed for summer patrons in a safe and comfortable outdoor setting

Restaurant preparing for phased re-opening of Massachusetts economy

Taking advantage of their prominent location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Dryft today announced it is ready to reopen with a spacious outdoor seating area for up to 100 diners on the nearly 1/2 acre plaza level of 500 Ocean Avenue in Revere – establishing a comfortable setting for diners to enjoy a meal while social distancing in a safe and responsible manner.

Created by restaurateur Michael Aldi, the Italian- and seafood-inspired Dryft features a premium raw bar and classic New England seafood selections. Italian-influenced pasta dishes, steaks, poultry and fresh local vegetables complement the menu.

The outdoor seating announcement comes as Gov. Charlie Baker has unveiled a phased plan for re-opening the Massachusetts economy – including sit-down dining at restaurants – as the COVID-19 crisis shows continued signs of improvement. The earliest possible date for opening restaurants to outdoor dining is June 8.  Dryft is prepared to open upon receiving the green light from the Commonwealth.

“We know for sure that our customers, as well as diners across Greater Boston, are eagerly anticipating the re-opening of all commerce and economic activity – including the much-loved experience of dining out and enjoying nightlife,” said Aldi, who saw Dryft open to rave reviews just weeks before the pandemic shuttered all non-essential businesses in Massachusetts. “It’s going to be critically important for every restaurant to offer a safe and reassuring environment for its diners – and I believe we are way ahead in our planning and preparation to do just that.”

The spacious outdoor terrace area will include seating for up to 100 diners with tables comfortably positioned at least eight feet apart. Dryft staff will receive specialized training in proper social-distance serving practices (e.g. on-line ordering), the use of PPE while serving and ensuring that all diners maintain social distancing while preserving an enjoyable dining atmosphere.

Additionally, Aldi is developing a service standard that will require some adaptation by both employees and diners – including tables with no standing items such as salt and pepper shakers or silverware, no shared food items or family-style service, touch-free transactions and strict guidelines on use of PPE by staff.

“I don’t think restaurants are going to be anything like they used to be, so we all have to adapt and get better at doing these necessary things,” Aldi said. “Our main focus right now is creating a spacious area outside for beachfront dining, where people will feel comfortable.”

The terrace seating area will be in place in anticipation of Gov. Baker’s phased re-opening plan.

An outdoor bar area is slated to open later this summer– subject to guidelines and restrictions that are established for bar seating and occupancy.

“Michael Aldi’s Dryft is one of our most important amenities and attractions. And we’re so pleased that our residents and the community have been incredibly supportive with takeout orders and words of encouragement during this unprecedented economic shutdown,” said Damian Szary, a principal at Redgate – developers of 500 Ocean Avenue. “Things are going to start re-opening, and Dryft will not only be ready for business – but positioned to offer a breathtaking experience for diners in a setting where they feel safe.”

The Dryft concept of “Miami meets Boston” is inspired by both the location along America’s oldest public beach as well as the premier living experience that’s been created at 500 Ocean Avenue, a luxury lifestyle community that is only 14 minutes to downtown Boston.

About 500 Ocean Avenue

An oceanfront property located just steps from the MBTA Blue Line, 500 Ocean Avenue is a residential community that features 305-units, including studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom and two-story loft apartments. 500 Ocean Avenue allows residents to experience a luxury urban lifestyle steps from the ocean and just minutes from downtown Boston. For more information, visit www.500oceanavenue.com.