Federal American Grill in Memorial reopens for in-dining service Friday against Hidalgo order

Customers ham it up for photographers outside Federal American Grill in Hedwig Village after eating at the restaurant that opened for business on Friday, April 24, 2020, despite stay-at-home orders. Customers ham it up for photographers outside Federal American Grill in Hedwig Village after eating at the restaurant that opened for business on Friday, April 24, 2020, despite stay-at-home orders. Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Staff Photographer Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Staff Photographer Image 1 of / 35 Caption Close Federal American Grill in Memorial reopens for in-dining service Friday against Hidalgo order 1 / 35 Back to Gallery

In Houston, fighting for your rights meant preparing a finely cooked filet mignon dinner - and serving it inside a restaurant - on Friday night.

Deciding stay-at-home orders are government overreach, Houston restaurant owner Matt Brice reopened Federal American Grill at 8731 Katy Freeway for in-dining service. He risked a $1,000 fine and up to six months in jail for defying Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s order that closed many businesses, including dine-in restaurants and bars, until April 30.

“We’ve complied 100 percent until now,” said Brice. “What I don’t like is that the government is picking and choosing which businesses win or lose. They are sinking the economy. We have to stand our ground and get people back to work.”

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Diners began showing up for dinner service at 5 p.m. While most had reservations, those who didn't were turned away. “We are only taking up to 30 percent of the restaurant’s capacity for social distancing,” said Brice.

Across the nation, some Americans are protesting state lockdown policies, even as polls show that most people support the restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus.

In Austin, several dozen anti-lockdown protesters gathered outside the Capitol building on Saturday. In Washington, conservative groups protested at the State Capitol in Olympia on Sunday to pressure the overturn of state and local orders.

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Among the diners Friday was Houston resident Brenda Cheney. “We are ready to get out and have some fun with our girlfriends. I’ve read all the precautions (Brice) is taking, and I think it’s fabulous,” she said.

Galleria-area resident Peggy Tuck brought a special face mask for the occasion. “I made a happy hour mask. I put a split in it so that I can drink.”

Renee Davis showed her support by standing outside the restaurant and holding up an anti-Hidalgo sign. “The government has overstepped their bounds in not allowing people the choice to work,” Davis said.

Adrienne and Charles Lyons drove from the Energy Corridor. They were among the first to dine.

“It is not like (Brice) is trying to rebel. He is trying to keep his business alive and his people working,” said Adrienne. “We felt safe and everything was fabulous. To have someone bring you a drink and wait on you … it felt so nice.”

Before reopening, Brice put together a list of safety measures. “One death is too many. We are managing the situation here,” he said.

His measures included temperature checks for all employees before their shifts. They were also required to wear a face mask and gloves, which they changed regularly.

An attendant stood in the entry to the restroom area, allowing only one person to enter at a time.

Several tables were left empty between parties for social distancing, and patrons were given the option to pay their bill hands-free via PayPal and Venmo.

“I’ve received tons of support from local restaurants and national restaurateurs,” said Brice. “But this is not about Federal American Grill. It never has been. I am doing this for all the small businesses.”

Brice understands there are some who disagree.

“That is your right. If you’re a high risk or sick, if you feel like you shouldn't go out, then don’t,” he said. “I am not trying to ruffle feathers but we have to survive.”

Federal Grill will open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for dinner service daily. Curbside and delivery service still will be offered.

As of now, Brice does not have plans to open the restaurant’s Washington Corridor location at 510 Shepherd.

@marcydeluna





