Anxious to get a bite to eat that you didn’t cook? You can do so safely in Leesburg, starting Friday.

A new three-month pilot program in Leesburg will shut down a one-block portion of South King Street to vehicular traffic each Friday and Saturday night starting July 31 until October 24 so restaurants can create or expand dining areas to safely accommodate customers.

The city announced Wednesday that at least a half-dozen restaurants are expected to participate: Black Hoof Brewing Company, Delirium Café, Echelon Wine Bar, King Street Oyster Bar, Leesburg Gourmet and The Wine Kitchen.

But this isn't the first time this portion of South King Street has been limited to pedestrians only. The city piloted the idea back in August as part of Leesburg's First Friday event, WTOP reports.

"We have been looking forward to a program like this even before COVID, where the Town of Leesburg would create the ability to enjoy outdoor dining," Echelon Wine Bar Owner and Wine Director Aimee Henkle told the Loudoun Times-Mirror.

Streets close at 3:30 p.m. each weekend evening so diners can enjoy their meals until 10 p.m. The closures affect South King Street from Market to Loudoun streets, according to the city.

Live entertainment still isn’t allowed to ensure patrons maintain social distance. And anyone still uncomfortable with dine-in service but who wants to support these South King Street restaurants can park on Market Street to pick up to-go orders.

The city hasn't announced any plans to expand the program beyond weekends or past late October.

Do you feel comfortable enough to book an outdoor dining experience in Leesburg? Leave a comment and let us know!