By Bob Bong
Rooftop Tap, which had just reopened last month at 12231 S. Harlem Ave. in Palos Heights, has been temporarily closed since last week because of possible COVID-19 contamination.
On July 15, the business wrote on its Facebook page: “It is with our deepest regret to inform you that we have recently discovered that someone we have encountered has tested positive for Covid-19. We are doing all diligence necessary to remedy the situation. Currently, we are abiding by all state mandated rules and regulations. In that effort, we are utilizing sanitation remediation that is scheduled to commence tomorrow morning. With that being said, both bars will be closed until all staff and employees have been tested and have received negative results. We hope to see you soon and appreciate your patience during this time.”
On July 16, they posted: “Currently, we have had one round of sanitation and awaiting test results from all staff and employees. Once we have had another round of sanitation and have received negative results, we will reopen. Thank you for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. Please check back for updates and reopening date.”
Shortly after it reopened in June, General Manager Joshua Cagney, a former chef, said the business would offer a bar menu “with some tweaks.” Featured on the menu are sandwiches, appetizers, burgers and pizza.
Owners Frank and Marilyn Costa, of Palos Park, did some remodeling in the transition back to the Rooftop Tap after a brief incarnation as Zach’s On Tap.
“While we were closed, we did a lot of work inside,” said Cagney. “We added Golden Tee and darts. It now has a better atmosphere for watching sports.”
A big attraction is its rooftop bar, which is set up to follow CDC guidelines with tables six feet apart and a limit of six people per group.
“We’re getting really good vibes from people in the community,” Cagney said.