Gardner License Commission Approves License Transfer for Sawa Asian Cuisine Amid Business Restructuring
- Meeting Overview:
The Gardner License Commission convened to address several licensing matters, most notably approving a transfer of the liquor license for Sawa Asian Cuisine and Lounge to a new corporate entity, Kong LLC. This change accompanies the business’s relocation and restructuring efforts.
06:20In the meeting, representatives from Sawa Asian Cuisine and Lounge outlined the business’s transition from DK Brothers Incorporated to Kong LLC. The transfer of the liquor license is part of a broader restructuring that involves the dissolution of DK Brothers and the assumption of its assets, including the intellectual property and liquor license, by Kong LLC. The change was characterized as a family transaction, with no monetary exchange, primarily facilitating the departure of a previous owner, David Wong. The commission verified that all necessary documentation was in order and unanimously approved the transfer.
06:57The commission also addressed applications from Fitness Concepts for two special one-day licenses. The first is for a “cheesy beer run” on May 17, 2025, and the second for a summer solstice outdoor wine yoga event on June 19, 2025. Both events have been successfully organized in the past, and the commission approved the licenses, noting that participants will receive limited complimentary beverages with their registrations and will be able to purchase additional drinks.
11:21Additionally, the commission reviewed the status of several pending licenses and renewals. The Gardner Lodge 1426 Elks change of manager remains under review by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) due to previously submitted incorrect documents. The Four Seasons Chinese Cuisine’s new all-alcohol beverage license has been approved by the ABCC. The Lithuanian Outing Association is awaiting confirmation from the ABCC after submitting an updated unemployment insurance certification. Seasonal renewal packets for local establishments were discussed, with inspections pending for some venues.
15:44In a matter of new business, a request for an additional off-premises liquor license for a new liquor store at the former Gardner Spirits location was forwarded to the city council and mayor for state petitioning. The commission emphasized the importance of addressing such requests to support local economic growth.
Michael J. Nicholson
Licensing Board Officials:
Nancy Binder, Mike Fitzsimmons, Kenneth Arsenault
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Meeting Type:
Licensing Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/08/2025
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Recording Published:
04/09/2025
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Duration:
18 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Worcester County
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Towns:
Gardner
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