Now that restrictions have been somewhat loosened, Stan Killam, manager of MR MIKES Steakhouse Casual in Portage, is glad to see the steps taken.

He says the nightlife in Portage, as well as Manitoba, has largely dissipated following the COVID pandemic and the ensuing restrictions. He notes, while they're allowed to be open later, they'll hold off for at least a month or so.

"We're not going to go open till midnight until probably spring," explains Killam. "When the patio starts opening up and guests and people, and the province all start to ease up a little bit more."

He says the spring, when combined with the loosened restrictions, will be great for businesses as they host sports teams looking to grab some food following their games. Being able to sit outside in warm weather with great company will help restaurants regain some business they lost over recent months.

"I've really appreciated how the province has gone through this one," notes Killam. "All of our healthcare workers have been working the hardest and we love that, we respect them for it, and we're grateful for it."

For a list of the current public health restrictions in the province, click here.