So you’ve passed the hardest part in the game and your restaurant is now in full swing. But you want to give your customers a better dining experience – namely, one that pairs delicious food with equally delicious wine and spirits. And the biggest benefit to you as an owner? Well, it’s statistically proven you can boost profits from serving alcohol! So what exactly are the steps involved in serving alcohol? You need to first acquire a liquor license from your state.
There are a few different licenses to apply for so you need to distinguish which type of food service establishment you are before proceeding further.
For example:
• Restaurant wine: You are allowed to sell beer and wine but not liquor or distilled spirits.
• Tavern wine: This applies if more than 50% of your sales are wine and beer.
• On-premises (full-liquor license): You are allowed to sell beer, wine and liquor.
• Club: Allows private clubs to serve alcohol to their members.
• Brewpub: Restaurants or establishments that brew and serve their own beer.
• Eating place beer: For restaurants where you can drink beer on the premises and can sell carry out beer.
The application process can seem very overwhelming and some choose to hire a specialized attorney and some choose reputable restaurant consultants since there are many detailed and legal aspects to be dealt with. To understand the full requirements, including the cost, you must contact the Alcohol Beverage Control agency in your state. In some states, there are a limited, fixed amount of licenses issued so you must purchase an existing one.
The time it takes to obtain a license from applying to issuance can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. And once you obtain one, you need to monitor your staff and management to ensure your establishment is in compliance with the rules set forth or else your license can be revoked. Synergy has helped many establishments with their liquor license. If you need assistance, please call our offices for a free initial consultation, 888-861-9212.