Alcoholic drink delivery starts Friday across Virginia: “It’s a good thing”

As the coronavirus pandemic continues, you can now order a cocktail to go from your favorite restaurant.

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam today announced his latest round of sweeping changes in state liquor laws.

“As of Friday, April 10, mixed beverage restaurants, limited mixed beverage restaurants, distillers and limited distillers with an agreement with ABC will be able to sell product samples and cocktails to go or for delivery, subject to limitations imposed by Virginia ABC,” according to ABC.

Now restaurants, breweries, and distilleries can use third-party delivery services such as Grubhub and Uber Eats, to deliver beer and mixed drinks to customers. Additionally, customers may now walk in and order booze to go.

The action comes after ABC has already relaxed its rules during the coronavirus pandemic, allowing breweries and distilleries to sell theirs to drive-through customers.  Last month, the governor issued an order limiting public gatherings to groups of no more than 10 people, in order to practice social distancing. That has severely limited access to the restaurant’s dining rooms, forcing some to close.

“It’s a good sign for restaurants and distillers. The governor has been as flexible as possible to help restaurants and distillers that are hurting due to this pandemic,” said Virginia State Senator Jeremy McPike (D, 29 Prince William County).

McPike is the patron of Senate Bill 1171 which created an ABC license that allows various entities such as localities and organizations to allow alcohol consumption outdoors, within certain areas, for special events. These events could include areas such as downtown sidewalks, allowing people to stroll around and walk into businesses that are not licensed to sell alcoholic beverages.

“It’s a good thing, especially if we’re going to have four more weeks of quarantine. It’ll help business and it won’t hurt people. It certainly won’t make things worse. People are looking for anything to help at this point,” commented Justin Caldwell who is the General Manager of Charley G’s, a Louisiana style cuisine restaurant in Fredericksburg.

More good news for restaurant owners: ABC has decided to defer license renewal fees for 90 days from their original expiration dates, for licenses expiring in March, April, May, and June. These deferrals will allow businesses to continue to operate without concern over choosing between keeping an employee or renewing a license, according to state officials.