WILLIAMSBURG, Brooklyn (PIX 11) -- A pandemic-era law allowing restaurant patrons to take their cocktails to-go could soon become permanent as part of a new push by Governor Kathy Hochul.
In a bid to keep spirits high and glasses filled, Governor Hochul is proposing the permanent legalization of to-go cocktails. Originally introduced as a remedy for struggling restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic, the law turned out to be a lifeline for establishments facing financial hardship. Kevol Graham of Caribbean restaurant Kokomo says that the law, along with other measures, helped bring in much-needed revenue.
"During COVID, I think we had to be as creative as possible," Graham said. "I think the outside seating helped us a lot, the roadside seating, and the ability to have to-go drinks, cocktails, was a plus for us because it was a way to bring people to the restaurant."
The current law, which requires restaurants to serve to-go drinks with a takeout meal, is set to expire next year. Governor Hochul is proposing the law become permanent as part of this year's budget, citing its success for bars and restaurants. Graham is embracing that push after he says he saw a 15 to 20 % spike in liquor sales.
"Just having this different way of bringing money in and helping restaurants out in that time was very pivotal," said Graham. "It gave us a little bit of hope, it helped us pay some of our staff. Some weeks were very slow because of the things that were going on during COVID-19. So that definitely was helpful."
When first enacted, the law initially allowed restaurants to sell alcohol by the bottle -- a measure that saw pushback from liquor store lobbyists who felt the law was encroaching on their business. Michael Correra heads the Metropolitan Package Store Association.
"That is direct competition putting us out of business," said Correra. "We're at a distinct disadvantage because I certainly can't go and sell food and turn into a food restaurant."
The law has since been changed to only allow restaurants to sell to-go cocktails. Correra is now championing the law, as long as it stays regulated.
"The way we look at it and I look at it is that this is something that we can all live with," Correra said. "We can all work together with, and frankly as long as it's regulated properly."
The law will be discussed between Hochul and state lawmakers as part of ongoing budget negotiations. The state budget is expected to be finalized at the end of March.
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