QUEENS, N.Y. (NCC News) – Bel Aire Diner in Astoria, Queens turned their parking lot into an outdoor movie theater. The drive-in movie theater fits 45 vehicles to follow social distancing and movies are viewed on a big screen. Customers can also enjoy a special drive-in menu including popcorn, sliders and cheese nachos.
With New York restaurants only being allowed to do take-out and delivery orders during the COVID-19 pandemic, this is a perfect alternative to bring in costumers while following state-wide social distancing guidelines.
Ronald Fajardo, a Bronx resident, drove with his cousin to the drive-in movie theater on Memorial Day. The movie scheduled for that evening was “The Greatest Showman” (2017) and Fajardo says he felt that the staff did an excellent job enforcing social distancing. Specifically, he felt safe ordering food.
“With social distancing they always had to wear a mask if you had an order from the waiters,” said Fajardo. “They made you order from the app online with grub hub or seamless so that was the best way to get your order. It was fast. Once you ordered you just put your car name model and color and they delivered to your car.”
Drive-in movie-goers also contribute to helping first responders when purchasing popcorn bags. Bel Aire Diner has partnered with Queens Together, a community organization that helps feed Queens locals. This new initiative is fiscally sponsored through the Queens Economic Development Corporation and their mission is to provide meals and groceries to communities in need. Fajardo said he was happy to be a part of this fundraiser.
“I believe that’s great for them to not just take advantage of people wanting to go out,” said Fajardo. “But to actually donate and give this money back to frontline workers.”
In order to participate in the drive-in movie theater customers must register and purchase their tickets online, wear face masks when entering the diner to use their bathroom facilities and remain in their vehicles while watching the movie.
‘If you need to use the bathroom or just need to call over a waiter, they tell you to flash your high beams and they’ll come your way with masks on of course,” said Fajardo.
To view upcoming movie showings and to purchase tickets, visit their website.
