Customers at Lynagh’s Irish Pub occupied a makeshift patio created from two parking spaces in front of the popular bar near the University of Kentucky campus on May 27, 2004. Lynagh’s and many other Lexington bars and restaurants created or added outdoor seats since Lexington’s smoking ban took effect a month earlier. Lynagh’s 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. business was down at least 30 percent because of the ban, owner Gina Scott said. Some restaurants, bars and other businesses said they were hurting because of the ban, but others said they felt less impact than expected. Some downtown spots felt the pinch because they have less room to add outdoor dining space. Police frequently stopped to make sure patrons with alcohol were seated; restaurants and bars with an outdoor cafe permit can serve alcohol to seated people. Additionally, there must also be room for 4 feet of walkway between tables and chairs and the street. That’s difficult in areas of downtown with narrow sidewalks. Lynagh’s, the bar on Woodland and Euclid, was recently sold. Photo by Matt Goins.