MARTIN, Tenn. (WSIL) -- Tennessee's stay-at-home order is set to expire Thursday, but some businesses are already reopening their doors.
Governor Bill Lee said restaurants in 89 of the state's 95 counties could begin operating at 50-percent capacity Monday. But not every restaurant is taking the governor up on that.
In Martin, Tenn., restaurants like Sammies and The Hearth are welcoming customers inside, while other establishments are continuing to offer just carryout or delivery.
At Sammies, the owners are doing temperature checks at the door and allowing customers to eat inside and on the patio as long as they stay six feet apart.
The Hearth Restaurant, known for its buffet-style offerings, is instead serving up plated meals to customers.
"It's time to go back to work," said longtime owner Doug Thweatt. "That's what America's all about, get up and go."
While one passerby at The Hearth said he was too afraid to go inside, Tweatt said the ones that did come in for lunch were all smiles.
Meanwhile, Pizza Di Roma and Pasta in Martin is sticking with carryout.
"It's still too dangerous," said owner Steve Ali.
Beginning Wednesday, retail stores in those 89 counties will also be able to open at 50-percent capacity.
Gov. Lee plans to release guidelines this week for reopening churches, gyms, doctor's offices and hospitals.
Lee said close-contact services like barbershops, salons and tattoo parlors could reopen later in May.
