Palo Alto has blocked off many of the city's main thoroughfare's, including University Avenue, so local restaurants can spill out onto the street — offering patrons a safer dining option. (Photos courtesy of Hoda Emam)

During a time of social distancing, a sense of togetherness has emerged now that restaurants have taken over parking spots and expanded outdoor dining options in many Bay Area business districts.

In Palo Alto, cement boulders cut off access to University Avenue, the main artery running through the heart of downtown, to encourage diners to eat out. For the restaurant Local Union 271, the expanded outdoor dining option seems to be working as the eatery has seen an immense increase in traffic.

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