Ontario to permanently allow alcohol with food takeout and delivery

Bars and restaurants will be able to sell alcohol with food takeout and delivery orders permanently.

The government made the change allowing alcohol delivery earlier this year, as part of an emergency order to help food and drink establishments hit hard by COVID-19 restrictions.

The order was set to expire at the end of the year.

On Wednesday, the government announced the change would instead be made permanent.

“Local restaurants and bars are essential to community life in this province,” said Attorney General Doug Downey.

“We are taking actions to provide more opportunities for Ontarians to directly support their local communities when and how public health directives permit.”

Some other changes include permitting alcohol delivery in food boxes and meal kits, allowing restaurants and bars to offer mixed cocktails and growlers as part of a takeout or delivery order.

Spirits and 100 per cent Ontario wine will also be able to be sold at farmer’s markets.