Inwood Restaurant Loses Liquor License For Not Social Distancing

INWOOD, NY — A restaurant in Inwood got its liquor license suspended for ignoring the social distancing rules meant to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The Made In Mexico restaurant at 3950 10th Avenue in Inwood is among 19 businesses that had their licenses suspended on Monday by the New York State Liquor Authority.

"Investigators within the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately seventy-five patrons gathered in a nightclub-like-atmosphere in the outdoor dining area, ignoring social distancing guidelines," said a news release from Gov. Cuomo's office on Monday. "Numerous patrons drinking while standing, with tables not properly spaced apart and numerous patrons and employees without face coverings."

The 19 additional New York restaurants to get their liquor licenses yanked brings the total in the state to 83.

Over the weekend, the Multi-Agency Task Force conducted over 3,000 compliance checks Friday through Sunday night, where it observed 106 total violations.

Businesses found in violation of COVID-19 regulations face fines up to $10,000 per violation, while the more serious violations can result in immediate suspension of a bar or restaurant's liquor license.

"Bars and restaurants that continue to act irresponsibly are disrespectful, engaging in illegal behavior, and not only violating public health, but they are violating common decency," Cuomo said in the news release.