Players' Retreat officially reopens with safety protocols

The Players' Retreat in Raleigh officially reopened to customers on Wednesday with safety protocols in place.

The restaurant and bar, which is across from North Carolina State University, reopened briefly on Saturday afternoon so guests could cheer on the N.C. State Wolfpack in the College World Series.

New safety protocols are in place due to COVID-19. Indoor seating, for fully vaccinated guests only, is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Outdoor dining is available to all, with tables distanced apart.

In defining how he'd reopen, owner Gus Gusler said. "The pandemic completely changed how we do business, and we are placing these temporary policies in place to keep our team and guests safe. My wife, Doris, several of our employees and a number of regular guests have severe respiratory issues – keeping them safe and away from any risk is our top priority."

In addition to its new vaccination requirements, the restaurant also noted some changes made inside since it closed its doors more than a year ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The restaurant installed new igniter technology in all HVAC units to kill any viruses and has replaced the street-side outdoor glass with collapsible walls and windows to allow for more ventilation.

The Players' Retreat's new hours are Sunday 11 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to midnight and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

The PR is the 2020 WRAL Voters' Choice Award winner for best sports bar.