Jay’s Bar and Grill Faces Potential 45-Day Liquor License Suspension Over Underage Violations

COLUMBIA — Jay’s Bar and Grill Faces Liquor License Suspension Amid Underage Violations

Well folks, it looks like our beloved Jay’s Bar and Grill in The Vista is in a bit of hot water these days! As we all know how much Columbia enjoys its local nightlife, the bar might soon be putting a pause on its alcohol sales if a judge decides in favor of the South Carolina Department of Revenue. The twist? Jay’s is waiting for a court ruling on whether it will face a 45-day suspension of its liquor license due to a slew of alcohol-related violations since it opened its doors back in January 2023.

The Situation at Jay’s

According to the details from a recent court hearing on October 29, this well-known establishment has struggled with issues surrounding underage drinking. It’s gotten to the point where law enforcement officials allege that the place has repeatedly let in folks under the age of 21 to not only enter the bar but sip on some alcoholic beverages as well.

As attorney Dana Krajack, representing the Department of Revenue, noted, “This is a troubled location. By its design, it’s an underage bar.” That paints quite a picture, doesn’t it? The bar has reportedly not only ignored warnings but has even kept law enforcement at arm’s length. It appears they dropped a few balls when it came to implementing safety measures, leaving both residents and the law in a tight spot.

A History of Violations

For those curious about what led us to this point, the bar reportedly earned dozens of violations, including an overwhelming 80 citations for underage possession of alcohol from the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). One shocking incident that caught the courtroom’s attention involved a critical undercover operation where a 19-year-old informant was allowed to waltz right into Jay’s with absolutely no proper ID check. Imagine that!

As the agent in charge, Kirkland Paturzo, recounted, the informant even purchased a Michelob Ultra right in front of another SLED agent! Unbelievable, right? The bar’s troubles don’t stop there. Columbia police have also clocked in multiple calls about physical fights and overcrowding at the bar, raising concerns about safety and compliance.

Bar Management Responds

Now, we’ve got to give some credit to Jay’s bar management. Their attorney, John Alphin, made it clear during the court hearing that the establishment is no longer the same after they acknowledged their past mistakes. Alphin reassured the judge that significant changes have been set in place, including acquiring more robust ID scanners, extensive staff training, and even hand wristbands for patrons over 21.

General manager Michael Hyland confirmed the bar has also seen some staff changes after the December operation, stating that both the bartender and doorman involved in that incident have been terminated. Sounds like they’re trying to clean house and show the powers that be they’re committed to stepping up their game!

What Happens Next?

Despite the changes, the Department of Revenue remains skeptical, arguing that the new measures are too little, too late, given the ongoing nature of the violations. The judge’s ruling from the hearing hasn’t come through yet, but it’s crucial to note that if the court sides with the Department, a 45-day dry spell would hit the bar right around the busy holiday season. That’s certainly not going to do any favors for the bar or its patrons.

In the meantime, Jay’s liquor license awaits renewal on November 12. If you’re a regular, you may want to keep your ears open, as the future of your favorite hangout spot hangs in the balance! So Columbia, hang tight as we await a decision. Hopefully, we’ll be enjoying our favorite drinks at Jay’s again soon!