With mask in tow, I ventured out to explore Downtown Grand Rapids this Sunday. I was curious to find out what was open and what wasn't. I saw pics of tents and beer shanties at local restaurants so I bundled up and figured I'd give it a shot. I like eating Al Fresco so, let's do this! 

I went to One Twenty Three on Ionia Ave. Their website describes the tavern as a place

"Where the atmosphere is as warm as the dish that just came out of the kitchen."

Warm? Kinda. The atmosphere was welcoming and warm. Was the tent warm? Well...

I sat at a table that I was told might shield me from the breeze. With a clear view of the Lions football game which was playing at Studio Park, I was not freezing like the temps but chilly. I could hear the game clearly and see it through the poinsettias which adorned the tent. I sat, in my coat with hat and gloves, and enjoyed a mushroom Risotta with grilled chicken. The dish was steaming when it arrived at my table in a To-Go container with plastic utensils. I noticed breath leaving the patrons who were sitting at a table near me. Everyone was wearing coats, hats, gloves and boots. It was typical Michigan winter grab, except with outdoor dining in the winter, ya don't take your jacket off!

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Ian, my waiter, told me that One Twenty Three will be offering an entrée, garlic bread and a bottle of wine for two at half price all week. He mentioned that other establishments were  offering outdoor seating with a reservation, but One Twenty Three wasn't requiring reservations. Ian said they are doing what they can in an effort to stay open. I saw him disinfect tables and wash his hands a dozen times.

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The food was delicious! The service was great! The more wine I drank, the more tolerable the climate became. The atmosphere WAS warm and inviting, If you're planning on dining out this winter, dress warm and maybe have a cocktail! Or consider this... Ian was making plenty of hot coffee libations!

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