New York's watering hole patrons were in high spirits when bar seating finally returned following a ban for more than a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Reuters reported on Wednesday. 

There was a collective sigh of relief after New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday that bars, restaurans and other businesses can reopen at full capacity starting May 19.

A major pandemic taboo on drinking in the Big Apple has finally gone.

"Fourteen months since I've done this ... 42 inches high and it just feels right," 39-year-old New Yorker Matt Friedlander said with an air of satisfaction as he saddled on a bar stool at the White Horse Tavern.

Such a scene at the famed West Village watering hole would have been impossible during the past year. The Village is known as a gathering place for literary figures like James Baldwin, Norman Mailer and Dylan Thomas in the 1950s and 1960s.

"Glory be to God, New York City is back," Michael, a 47-year-old lawyer drinking his favorite vodka-orange juice at Killarney Rose, said.

"I forgot how much I missed drinking here and chasing women," Michael said.

Even at 100% capacity, other pandemic protocols will remain in effect for the time being, including wearing of facemasks and social distancing.

According to Cuomo, "if the CDC changes their guidance, then we'll change our guidance," The New York Post said.

Owners of business establishment owner hit hard by the global health crisis had been pleading for a loosening of the prohibitions, including the state's midnight curfew.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said he wants to "fully reopen" the city by July 1 -- a pledge that has encouraged pub owners while also putting a spotlight on operational challenges, Reuters said.

Meanwhile, New York's COVID-19 positivity rate continues to drop, reaching figures not seen since November, health officials said last week.