Bayside Hookah Bar Loses Liquor License For Pandemic Violations

BAYSIDE, QUEENS — A Bayside hookah bar got its liquor license yanked for flouting health rules meant to curb COVID-19's spread, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Tuesday.

Pyramids Hookah & Bar, on Bell Boulevard near 41st Avenue, ran into trouble Saturday after state investigators found a dozen customers drinking and smoking hookah illegally outside the bar, according to Cuomo's office.

Most of the customers weren't wearing masks while they were mingling, according to investigators from the state's multi-agency task force monitoring compliance with coronavirus-related rules on social distancing and outdoor dining.

The New York State Liquor Authority issued an emergency liquor license suspension the following day.

"We will not allow a handful of bad actors or reckless businesses to halt or reverse New York's progress," Cuomo said.

Pyramids was among 10 Queens establishments that lost their liquor licenses over the past week, including the historic Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden in Astoria, according to Cuomo's office.

Suspensions are effective indefinitely, pending the results of an administrative hearing.

After a hearing, a judge may reinstate the liquor license or permanently revoke the license and issue fines of up to $10,000 per violation.