Throughout the pandemic, it’s been a serious blessing to be able to get takeout and delivery when restaurants for dining in have been closed. But one thing that wasn’t allowed, and forced bars to close, was to-go cups of alcoholic beverages. But as of May 15, 2020, that’s all changing in New Jersey. Cocktails to-go and alcohol delivery from restaurants are now legal for takeout, and one business in Jersey City, Cellar335, was at the forefront of pushing this agenda.
Cellar335 posted on their Instagram today, “As of May 15, 2020, it is officially legal for restaurants in New Jersey to sell & deliver COCKTAILS TO GO! Thank you to the 4,500 of you who signed @tiki_pete’s petition, without your support, this would have never happened. We are over the moon to be able to keep our doors open, and to also be able to help and support our neighbors: both in Jersey City, Hoboken, and throughout the state. For in the spirit of togetherness, we will rise. Safe to say we have got a lot to celebrate, so place your orders NOW to have a toast with us! Mahalo, friends. 🎉🎉🎉”
Read More: All About Cellar 335 in Jersey City
Cellar335 had petitioned Governor Murphy to legalize to-go cocktails in New Jersey over the last few weeks, getting over 4500 signatures in a matter of days.
Previously, they posted on their Instagram, “We need some help from our community! Restaurants around New Jersey are going bankrupt during quarantine and as restrictions lift, we will be the last to feel the relief. Many restaurants rely on cocktails for half of their revenue, and without them, there is a good chance they won’t be able to survive. We have an opportunity to ask the governor to make ‘to-go’ cocktails legal; allowing restaurants to keep from closing their doors permanently.”
Read More: Your Guide to Beer and Wine Delivery in Hoboken + Jersey City
Bill A3966 will allow bars and restaurants licensed for alcohol sales to sell and deliver house-made cocktails in sealed containers during the state of emergency. As it currently stood, restaurants and bars could only sell alcohol in its original container {beer cans, bottle of wine, liquor bottle, etc} — so this is a big win.
Now signed by Governor Murphy, New Jersey joins 32 other states and Washington, D.C., who allow cocktails to-go in this manner. The containers cannot be larger than 16oz. and have a “tamper-evident” seal.
According to lawmakers, this temporary change will last either six months after the state of emergency ends OR when the stay-at-home occupancy restrictions in restaurants no longer apply {depending on which happens later}.
We’ll be sharing a list of to-go cocktail spots for you asap. Cheers!
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