"Having people here, having guests here, being able to serve, that's what the hospitality business thrives on," said Sayd.
To stay afloat, Sayd says they're applying for grants set aside for the entertainment industry. Other local theater owners are doing the same. The 93-year-old La Paloma in Encinitas is back open, but with fewer patrons.
"We have about 400 seats so it's easy to spread out and maintain the social distancing," said owner Allen Largent. "I think a lot of people are a little hesitant to get back out. A lot of people are anxious."
The La Paloma is very different from the more modern multiplex theaters. When it opened in the 1920s it was showing silent films. Now, it's the only remaining single-screen cinema in San Diego.