Politics & Government

Starbucks Alcohol Sales Vote on Thursday

The local planning commission will have its say on whether the coffee shop can serve beer and wine at one of its Calabasas locations.

The decision to grant Starbucks a permit to sell beer and wine at its is going before the Calabasas Planning Commission on Thursday.

The coffee giant in March to the state's Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) for a type 41 license to serve alcohol in Calabasas, as well as a handful of other locations throughout California. The application awaits approval from the state following approval from the city.

Commissioners have declined to comment on the matter until the July 19 meeting.

Find out what's happening in Calabasaswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

City staff is recommending granting the permit as long as Starbucks abides by several stipulations, such as prohibiting the sale of distilled spirits and offering various hot dishes to customers.

Starbucks also intends on installing new railing for the outside patio, according to a staff report.

Find out what's happening in Calabasaswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"The applicant is also proposing to enclose the existing patio seating area with new railing," the report read. "The ABC requires that outdoor seating areas be enclosed if the restaurant is to serve alcohol in that area."

Some Starbucks in Oregon and Washington already serve beer and wine.

Spokesman Zach Hutson said all employees behind the counter would be required to be at least 21 years old and receive comprehensive training on serving alcohol.

Beer and wine would be sold from 2 p.m. through closing on weekdays and noon to closing on weekends, he said.

Some residents that having beer and wine would make Starbucks another destination in Calabasas, while others are concerned about having adults consuming alcohol near youngsters.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here