In a significant move for Boston’s local economy, the city has recently granted the ability to serve alcohol to 21 restaurants across various neighborhoods. This approval comes as part of a larger initiative that saw the state Legislature authorize Boston to distribute 225 new liquor licenses last year, marking the most substantial increase since the end of Prohibition nearly a century ago.
Among the newly approved establishments are both new and established restaurants, enhancing Boston’s vibrant dining scene. These licenses were spread across eight different neighborhoods, showcasing a commitment to sparking economic growth in diverse areas of the city. Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized the importance of these licenses, stating, “These new liquor licenses are key to strengthening our local economy, supporting our small businesses and ensuring our communities are vibrant hubs for residents, families, and visitors.”
The city had already released the first batch of 37 licenses earlier this year, which set the stage for this recent approval. Most of the 225 new licenses are designed to be neighborhood-restricted, meaning they are allocated to areas with fewer existing licenses. As a result, this initiative aims to address disparities in liquor licensing that have historically affected underserved communities.
City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune articulated the broader implications of the new licenses, highlighting that the initiative extends beyond just restaurant openings. “The taps are open and the licenses are flowing,” Louijeune said. “Last week’s approval of 21 new liquor licenses is about more than just restaurants; it’s about investing in our neighborhoods, supporting our small businesses, and helping close the wealth gap in historically underserved communities.”
Boston’s local liquor licensing process is unique within Massachusetts. While other municipalities adjust limits based on population, Boston operates under a fixed cap established by state law. This framework can only be altered through a petition to state legislators, reflecting the city’s unique regulatory landscape.
The newly approved licenses must still receive final approval from the state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission before they can officially take effect. Applications for these new licenses are being accepted on a rolling basis by the city.
The following list includes the names and locations of the 21 eateries receiving new liquor licenses:
**South End (02118)**
– Mesob Restaurant, All Alcohol
– Capri, All Alcohol
– Wash El Beverages, All Alcohol
**Roxbury (02119)**
– Weston Way, All Alcohol
– District 7 Cafe, All Alcohol
**Dorchester (02121)**
– Cool Shade Jamaican Restaurant, All Alcohol
**Dorchester (02122)**
– Blasi’s Kitchen & Bar, All Alcohol
– Milkweed, All Alcohol
– Pizza 24, Beer and Wine
**Dorchester (02124)**
– Molinari’s, All Alcohol
– Doune & Pepe, All Alcohol
**Dorchester (02125)**
– Chilacates Cantina, All Alcohol
**Jamaica Plain (02130)**
– AAA Restaurant, All Alcohol
– Miami Restaurant, All Alcohol
– Mr. Drinky, All Alcohol
**Roslindale (02131)**
– Knoll Street Tavern, All Alcohol
– sweeties, All Alcohol
– Green T Coffee Shop, All Alcohol
**West Roxbury (02132)**
– Somtum Modern Thai Cuisine, Beer and Wine
**Oak Square, Brighton (02135)**
– Mo’s Tavern & Kitchen, All Alcohol
**Hyde Park (02136)**
– Boston Pickle Club, Beer and Wine
These additions are expected to contribute significantly to the local atmosphere and economy, providing much-needed support for community businesses.
image source from：masslive
