Beer and Wine License: Overview

Restaurant Licenses (Beer & Wine)

Beer and wine licenses are available from the state and are issued to full service restaurants only. To qualify, at least 60% of the restaurant’s gross receipts must come from the sale of food. The business must have a full kitchen, dining area and wait staff to deliver food and beverages to the tables. Restaurants serving only hamburgers, sandwiches, salads or other fast foods will not qualify.

There are currently approximately 650 businesses that have this type of license. They are allowed to serve beer and wine only with meals and cannot function as a bar or nightclub. There are no quota limitations, however not all counties or municipalities have held the election that allows issuance of these licenses. To determine whether this license type is available in your area, please contact our office at (505) 476-4875.