Providence Denies Liquor License for NY System

Late-night patrons enjoying food at NY System after the liquor license denial.

News Summary

Providence’s Board of Licenses has denied the NY System’s request for a liquor license while approving late-night food service from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. This decision came after a 3-2 vote led by Chairman Dylan Conley. The NY System, owned by Heritage Restaurant Group, had submitted the license application with hopes of serving alcohol. The ruling reflects ongoing license renewal challenges faced by numerous local establishments as the Board seeks to enforce compliance for public safety.

Providence Denies Liquor License for NY System, Approves Late-Night Food Service

Providence’s Board of Licenses has denied the NY System’s request for a liquor license, but has granted permission for the establishment to continue serving food during its late-night hours. This decision was reached after a 3-2 vote, with Board Chairman Dylan Conley leading the discussion.

The NY System, which is now owned by the Heritage Restaurant Group, submitted their application on May 29 to renew their existing late-night food service permit and to obtain a liquor license. While the liquor license was denied, the restaurant is allowed to serve food from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m., catering to late-night patrons in the area.

Board of Licenses Actions and Business Renewals

This ruling comes amid broader efforts by Providence’s Board of Licenses regarding license renewals. On Thursday, the Board summoned the owners of over 60 bars, restaurants, and shops to address issues related to late renewal of licenses. Most of the businesses received a two-week extension to resolve these matters and ensure compliance.

Business owners have the option to renew their licenses through an online portal or return to court on January 23, where further evaluations will take place. To avoid appearing in court, businesses must submit all necessary documentation through the online system. The Board of Licenses aims to show leniency to those cooperating while emphasizing strict enforcement against non-compliance.

Requirements for License Renewal

To successfully renew a license, businesses are required to complete several stipulations. This includes payment of applicable fees, submission of establishment layout and business plans, proof of workers’ compensation, liability insurance certifications, and a certificate of good standing from the state tax office. Failure to meet these requirements can result in conditional cease-and-desist motions allowing businesses to temporarily continue operations without alcohol service.

However, less than ten businesses currently face these conditional motions due to incomplete documentation or safety issues. The Board is prepared to enforce penalties on businesses that do not comply with timely payment of sales taxes throughout the year. Additionally, some establishments, like Kin Southern Table and Toscan Social Club, have decided to cease operations instead of pursuing renewal applications.

Potential Consequences for Non-Compliance

Business owners who did not attend the recent court session have been given a deadline of 4:30 p.m. on Friday to submit their renewal applications. Failure to do this will result in closure. Chairman Conley has expressed doubts about whether all businesses will utilize the two-week extensions but believes a significant number will act to ensure their operations remain intact.

The events surrounding the NY System’s liquor license denial and the Board’s ongoing renewal campaign highlight the importance of regulatory compliance for businesses within Providence. The Board’s efforts to maintain public safety and proper operational standards in the restaurant and bar industry continue to shape the landscape of local entrepreneurship.