The most pressing topic involved K&K Restaurant Group, Inc., doing business as Estella, where officers responded to a noise disturbance call on Temple Place on January 27, 2026. The board heard extensive testimony about the incident, which involved multiple alleged violations, including the sale and consumption of alcohol after hours, indoor smoking of hookah and cannabis, and unauthorized adult entertainment. Officers arriving at the scene found a private party in the basement with loud music, a strong smell of hookah and marijuana, and exotic dancers exiting the premises. Security personnel initially blocked police access, but officers documented patrons with drinks in hand and numerous $1 bills on the floor. The establishment’s representative, George Mandale, explained that the party was intended for Patriots players waiting to move to another location. Mandale admitted the gathering breached regulations and expressed regret, stating, “It was more of a breach… we got to follow the rules, follow the guidelines.” He accepted responsibility, emphasizing the challenges of managing high-profile patrons who often believe they can bypass rules.

The board’s inquiry into Estella’s compliance with licensing regulations highlighted tensions between maintaining order and accommodating celebrity guests. Chairwoman Joyce questioned the absence of Susan Sarvesy, the manager on duty, and Mandale confirmed that Sarvesy was instructed not to host similar events without proper oversight. Despite assertions that no sales occurred during the incident, with tabs left unpaid, the board urged for clarity in handling high-profile gatherings to prevent future violations.

Parallel to the Estella case, the board reviewed allegations of assault and battery at Game On, located on Lansdowne Street, stemming from a November 1, 2025, incident. The victim, Shawn Clump, reported being assaulted while dancing, resulting in visible injuries. Detective Norman highlighted delays in receiving helpful video footage from the establishment. Game On’s attorney, Dennis Quilty, presented staff witnesses who testified that Clump declined medical assistance and appeared in good spirits, raising questions about the severity of his injuries. Despite the lack of clear evidence from the video and differing accounts of the incident, the board probed the credibility of Clump’s claims and the establishment’s response to the altercation.

Hava Lounge faced scrutiny for multiple incidents of assault and disorderly conduct on December 28, 2025. Patrons Neil Gerava and Cece were involved in an altercation, leading to medical evaluations. Additional reports detailed separate assaults at the W Boston Hotel, where victims claimed to have been attacked by multiple individuals. Kevin Montgomery, director of operations for Hava Lounge, cooperated with police and committed to providing surveillance footage. The board addressed concerns over security protocols and the need for clarity in incident reporting, with Montgomery acknowledging failures in security response and terminating personnel for negligence.

In another case, Alma, operated by BRV Dining Group LLC, was cited for serving more than two alcoholic drinks to a single patron on December 31, 2025. The board learned that the violation stemmed from a misunderstanding, with the establishment emphasizing retraining efforts to ensure compliance with alcohol service regulations.

Finally, the board considered compliance issues at AVA Guac and Margs, where a blocked fire exit and missing fire department assembly permit were noted. The establishment took immediate corrective actions following the inspection, removing obstructions and educating staff on fire safety.