Local restaurateurs split over vaccine requirements for diners

Nancy Lavin

08/17/2021

BENJAMIN SUKLE, CHEF AND OWNER of Providence Oberlin is one of two local restaurant owners that is requiring customers to chose proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. / PBN FILE PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY — BENJAMIN SUKLE, CHEF AND OWNER of Providence's Oberlin, is requiring customers to choose proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. / PBN FILE PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY

PROVIDENCE - The New York Times called a mere 45 minutes after Benjamin Sukle posted a new set of COVID-19-related restrictions at his downtown Providence restaurant Oberlin. Sukle, a James Beard-nominated chef whose first Providence restaurant birch - which is now closed- earned a number of national accolades, was no stranger to press. But this…