Chef Thomas Ortega has decided to re-open his two Long Beach restaurants, Playa Amor and Amorcito, come Cinco de Mayo. The decision comes after Ortega opted to shutter all of his restaurants—including Amor y Taco in Cerritos, recognized by the Michelin Guide last year—following the coronavirus mandates issued to restaurants.

“I had to honestly feel out what the situation was,” Ortega said. “My restaurant workers are my family—and basically, it’s our livelihoods. We listened to government, took the precautions, shuttered our businesses and stayed home. But there comes a time when we are responsible to pay the never-ending stack of bills and rents that keep coming and piling up. It’s a reality you can’t ignore.”

Ortega said he has decided to learn from what other restaurants are doing: figure out a to-go game plan for all three of his Amor Familia restaurants and go from there.

“The other main factor was the need to get our workers money to provide for them and their families,” Ortega said. “We feel safe at this point that we can function safely and efficiently using all the precautionary measures. Can’t just watch our dreams and livelihoods crumble to the ground with handcuffs on.”

Playa Amor and Amorcito will both be open on Cinco de Mayo and will remain open thereafter for to-go and delivery orders.

Playa Amor’s hours will be Wednesday through Sunday, from 3 to 8 p.m. Amorcito will be open Thursday through Sunday from 12:30 to 8 p.m.