New Coronavirus Rule Alters How DC Diners Are Served Alcohol

WASHINGTON, DC — Diners in the District looking to have a drink with their dinner will have to take it with them or have it delivered to their home thanks to a new measure aimed at mitigating the spread of the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

The Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board voted 6-0 Wednesday to adopt an emergency rule to prohibit the the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-site consumption. The new rule goes into effect Thursday at 4 p.m., and will continue throughout the duration of the public health emergency declared by Mayor Muriel Bowser.

Bowser already ordered all bars and restaurants to end table seating on Monday night. The ban on indoor dining is in place until April 1.

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The prohibition affects retailers with Class C or D licenses; Class A or B manufacturers, who have a permit for on-site sales and consumption; and festival and temporary license holders, as well as any other license or permit category under Title 25 of the DC Official Code.

Hotels that hold an ABC license can continue to offer minibars to guests in their rooms or provide alcohol via room service.

Licensed taverns and restaurants that have registered with the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA) to sell wine, beer and spirits in closed containers for carryout or delivery, provided the delivery includes at least one prepared food item, may continue doing so. ABRA registration is required by law.

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