If there's one thing Jib Jab in Girard is known for besides its hot dogs, it's the words of wisdom on the sign out front.
 
On this day - perhaps more so than others - the sage words welcoming customers are ones the staff and management are living by
 
"We are definitely optimistic about it," says assistant manager Alexandra Vince Koosh.
 
Restaurants across the Valley and Ohio will start welcoming back dine-in customers Thursday.
 
For the smaller, mom-and-pop type haunts, the process to prepare is as unique as they are.
 
"We have our tables marked off for our social distancing," says Koosh. "We have switched to packets of salt and pepper, everything is heavily sanitized.
 
Between the preparation and the anticipation, the customers are ready to fill the booths and chairs.

"They're excited to come in and eat again and we miss those regulars so we're excited for them to come in again," Koosh says.
 
"Everything's been crazy, this isn't normal for anyone," said Sunrise Inn manager Tom Adair.
 
Among the variables to consider - Memorial Day weekend.
 
It's why some favorites like Sunrise are holding out a few days longer.
 
"It looks like it's going to be nice out and our take-out menu does pretty well at that time," Adair says.
 
Which is helping to offset the extra pressure to give customers the best and safest experience.
 
"Logistics, cost...you try to never cut corners but you have to try and do things efficiently as possible," says Adair.
 
"I think it'll probably take care of itself...once we get the kinks worked out after the first day and everything starts running more smoothly," adds Koosh.
 
Sunrise Inn will resume dine-in service May 26.