Local cafe in Santa Maria increases safety measures as Omicron takes toll

SANTA MARIA, Calif. -  Cafe in Santa Maria is changing its services as Omicron takes a toll.

The Moxie café managers say they’re taking two steps back in order to keep their customers safe as Omicron spreads.

Since the start of the pandemic, Moxie Cafe in Santa Maria has been getting by.

"We haven’t closed we stayed open the whole time," said assistant manager Angela Regis at Moxie Cafe.

Just when they thought the worst of the pandemic was over, omicron is throwing them a fast ball.

"We’ve been through this before so we’re just kind of going back to being very careful for I guests and for employees," said general manager Robert Grimmesey.

The cafe is once again returning to more outdoor seating.

They’re also going back to disposable dish-ware.

"I'm glad they’re making progress … getting ahead in making sure we’re safe," said customer Perla Bernal at Moxie Cafe.

Customers say they don’t mind the disposable material because they know it’s for their health and safety.

"They’re making sure they’re not spreading anything from one plate to the other they’re wrapped individually so you know you’re the only one using it," said Bernal.

In addition to keeping guests safe, they’re also looking out for the well being of their employees.

"Give our employees vitamins for free to make sure … They stay healthy … we just make sure we keep people safe like that," said Regis.

Mangers say they hope to continue serving the community with healthy food during this tough time.