Long awaited change is finally coming. Governor Cuomo announced today that the 12 a.m. food and beverage service curfew will be lifted for outdoor dining on May 17 and for indoor dining on May 31. In another important development, starting on Monday, May 3, seating at bars will also be permitted. Food must still be ordered with an initial drink order, though the State Legislature is about to eliminate that unpopular requirement ridiculed by many in the industry. The infamous “Cuomo chips” will be no more. The 1 a.m. curfew for catered events where attendees have provided proof of vaccination status or a recent negative COVID-19 test result will be lifted beginning May 17, with the curfew for all catered events set to be lifted May 31.