Sea Breeze Cafe Loses Liquor License After Health Violations

BABYLON, NY —A longtime Babylon bar and restaurant has temporarily closed its doors after being hit with several COVID-19 health violations from New York State. Sea Breeze Cafe at 470 Fire Island Ave. was cited on February 27 for overcrowding, lack of social distancing and lack of face mask usage among patrons and staff.

The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) reported to Patch that the citations came as a result of community complaints. Inspectors then found 67 patrons inside the establishment, almost three times the amount under coronavirus rules, and 17 people over the even pre-pandemic limit.

"Investigators observed a bartender serving patrons without a facial covering, in addition to numerous patrons, most without face masks, standing, drinking, playing pool and ignoring social distancing around the bar area. Investigators also noted at the time of the inspection, there was no food available for sale," the SLA stated in an email.

The suspension began on February 28 and remain in effect until Sea Breeze Cafe's owners respond to the charges and any applicable fines. The maximum penalty for SLA violations can be permanent loss of a liquor license or fines up to $10,000.

Have you observed COVID-19 health code violations at many Babylon Village establishments? Let us know in the comments.