One of our requirements while searching for the ideal Mozzeria site is that the liquor license be included in the package. But as you know, you don't always have the luxury to have all wants and needs in the same basket. Unfortunately the space at 3228 16th Street didn’t come with the liquor license.

The previous tenant, before we took over the space, was an Italian restaurant. It went down in April 2010 and their liquor license was apparently sold to someone else. Dang! That didn't, however, stop us from signing the lease.

We have applied for a new liquor license through the Department of Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) in California. I have heard some stories about the application process and how brutal their regulations are.

But the ABC is not the only one we need to deal with. Locals in the neighborhood can raise objections to our license application. We were worried about not being licensed to serve beer and wine at Mozzeria, and needed a consultant to help us navigate the application process.

Carrie Peters, of Beard and Peters (petersandbeard.com) is now representing us and will help us obtaining the liquor license. Exciting!

Types
41  On-Sale Beer and Wine for Bona Fide Public Eating Place (beer and wines only)
47  On-Sale General for Bona Fide Public Eating Place (hard liquor, wine and beer)

In the Mission District, there are many bars with type 41 licenses. The City is trying to limit the numbers of establishments applying for type 41. We are applying for type 41 as beer and wine goes well with our pizzas and other dishes.

Carrie has informed us of the great news that Mozzeria’s application has been filed. The next step is to send notification cards within the neighborhood. We are hopeful that they wouldn't object to Mozzeria getting the type 41 license. If things go well, Mozzeria can expect to get the license in few months.

Below is the chart showing you how the procedure works. Fascinating… isn’t it?

Alcoholic Beverage License - Application Process<link to PDF>