Boston Licensing Board Weighs Late-Night Hours, Liquor License Changes Amid Community Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
In the recent Boston Licensing Board meeting, discussions centered on proposals for extended late-night hours for local cafes and changes in liquor licenses for various establishments. The board reviewed applications that raised community interest and operational concerns, particularly regarding late-night business operations and the impact of liquor stores on neighborhood litter.
The board’s attention was first drawn to the petition from Fazerid LLC, doing business as Turkish Lazori Cafe, seeking to extend its closing hours from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. at its North Beacon Street location. The representative for the café explained that they wish to replicate the late-night hours previously operated at a different location, emphasizing that most business during these hours would be facilitated by delivery services. While the board expressed concerns about potential issues with intoxicated patrons, the representative assured them that the primary focus would be on takeout services. Support from the Alston Civic Association was noted, and the board took the matter under advisement.
Moreover, SPD Hospitality LLC, operating as Wishing Cup, presented a similar request to extend operating hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to 3 a.m., highlighting a purpose-driven mission of granting one wish each month. Although the board did not immediately express concerns, the request was also taken under advisement pending further review.
A significant portion of the meeting addressed community concerns regarding litter and the operational impact of liquor stores, particularly in the Back Bay area. Sobo Wine, Inc., and Marble Liquor Market Inc. both petitioned for changes in stock interest and business names to “City Liquor and Smoke Shop.” The discussions revealed community tensions, with residents voicing concerns about litter from miniature liquor bottles, also known as nips, which were attributed to these stores. Conrad Armstrong from the Back Bay Neighborhood Association and resident Claire Kaplan requested the board defer decisions to allow for community dialogue, while attorney Mike Corey representing the applicants argued against prohibiting nip sales, emphasizing their financial significance to the business.
George Lewis and Alexander Kon, local residents, further amplified these concerns, urging the liquor stores to engage with the neighborhood to address issues related to product offerings and trash. The board acknowledged the necessity of community engagement but noted that formal outreach was not a requirement under current regulations. Despite these tensions, the board decided not to defer its decision-making process, emphasizing the need for a resolution at the upcoming neighborhood association meeting.
Among other noteworthy applications was the request from 111 LLC, doing business as Brownstone, to transfer its liquor license to Mother’s East Tavern LLC. The applicant highlighted a strong background in the restaurant industry and positive feedback from local organizations during the community outreach process.
Also discussed was the transfer of a liquor license from Rockwood Music Hall Boston LLC to GWY LLC, doing business as Tradesman. This proposal included plans for a new establishment featuring a dining area, bar, and outdoor patio. The board focused on the applicants’ experience and plans for community engagement, with the discussions highlighting the importance of operational compliance and neighborhood relationships.
The board reviewed additional applications, including those from Pranzini Inc. for Pini on Newbury Street and Big Night Venues Boston 5 LLC for the new Atlas Hotel. Each applicant provided assurances of compliance with licensing regulations and emphasized their community engagement efforts.
The meeting concluded with a discussion on Lord Hobo Dry Dock LLC’s application for a farmer brewery pouring license. The board noted strong community support for this transition, which aims to enhance the brewery’s offerings without major operational changes.
Michelle Wu
Licensing Board Officials:
Liam Curran, Keeana Saxon, Kathleen Joyce, Daniel R. Green
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Meeting Type:
Licensing Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
11/19/2025
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Recording Published:
11/20/2025
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Duration:
60 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Suffolk County
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Towns:
Boston
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