Bars and restaurants across the state are now allowed to remain open until 11 p.m. just in time for Valentine's Day.

Owners say with pandemic capacity restrictions at 50% for indoor dining, they are hoping for a safe but profitable long weekend.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo says in a statement, "Our decisions are based on science and data and we adjust as the virus adjusts."

Restaurateurs say having every seat filled means a lot and they can't wait until they can allow more customers safely.

Cuomo's 11 p.m. closing time extension also applies to gyms, fitness centers, casinos, billiards halls and any other location with a State Liquor Authority license.