2 More Nassau Bars Lose Liquor Licenses Over Social Distancing

NASSAU COUNTY, NY — Two Nassau County bars were recently shut down over coronavirus social distancing violations, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced.

Leonard's of Great Neck, at 555 Northern Blvd. in Great Neck, and D'Ambiance, at 1177 Grand Ave. in Baldwin, both had their liquor licenses suspended after investigators said they found them not enforcing social distancing rules.

"Rules are only as good as enforcement, and as we have ramped up checks on bars and restaurants, compliance has increased, creating a safer environment for everyone," Cuomo said. "A small number of business owners still don't think the rules apply to them — even in focus zones where the state has tracked increased spread — and these suspensions should serve as a reminder that we will take action against those who callously put New Yorkers in harm's way. As we continue to fight clusters across the state, bar and restaurant owners should know that the State's task force will keep enforcing the law, and if they do not follow the rules they will lose their right to serve alcohol."

According to Cuomo, numerous complaints about noise and large gatherings were filed against Leonard's of Great Neck. On Sept. 25, the manager met the Nassau County Fire Marshal outside and said the venue was hosting a wedding with 100 to 120 guests, which is well over the limit of 50 people for gatherings. Leonard's had been warned two weeks earlier about occupancy limits, the governor said. The fire marshal then said he saw people standing, drinking and ignoring social distancing. One room was set up to hold 80 people and the other was set to hold 120, according to the governor. Leonard's had its license suspended on Sept. 30.

On Oct. 1, an inspection found six people inside D'Ambiance not wearing face masks while drinking, with no evidence of food being served. The fire marshal issued multiple summons and revoked D'Ambiance's public assembly license. In addition, two people were shot outside the bar on Sept. 27 after officials said bar security pushed people involved in a fight outside. Police officers who responded said they saw 30 people inside the bar, which has a maximum occupancy of 25. D'Ambiance's license was suspended Oct. 4.

"The increase in compliance we've seen is encouraging but not surprising, given the fact the overwhelming majority of bar and restaurant owners are hardworking, conscientious operators that put the health of their employees, patrons and communities first," New York State Liquor Authority Chair Vincent Bradley said. "However, as the risks associated with noncompliance by just a few bad actors remains high, the task force will continue our work to ensure a handful of reckless business owners do not halt or reverse our state's progress."