Now Order a Beer With That Burger or Roast Beef Sandwich

CJ’s Northside Grill received a beer and wine license from Selectmen Tuesday night, a move the owner said reflects changing demographics in the Nobscot neighborhood. 

Owner Chris Gagen, who has operated CJ's since 2011, said the restaurant is looking to augment an expanded menu that emphasizes full dinner offerings along with the shop's popular sandwiches.

“We have really worked hard to keep a family dynamic, to make the place light and airy,” he said, adding that the restaurant has no current plans to extend its hours later into the night. “Our location and space doesn’t lend itself to being a watering hole.”

Attorney Roger Dowd noted that CJ’s has been a fixture on the North side of town for more than 50 years in various incarnations, including as an ice cream stand and soda shop favored by families. 

“It may seem somewhat unusual for CJ’s to be asking for a beer and wine license,” Dowd said.

However, a boom in apartments in the area have meant changing demographics and more of CJ’s customers are now looking for a full-service menu.

“It is still retaining its character as a neighborhood restaurant. It is not going to turn into a place where people stay and drink all night.”

In response to a question from Selectman Jason Smith, who noted that CJ’s is widely known for hosting Gagen said no alcohol will be permitted outside of the restaurant.

Selectman Laurie Lee lauded the work Gagen has done in the past two years. “CJ’s is a great asset to the neighborhood,” she said. “You have proven yourself.”

CJ's also has hosted fundraisers for community organizations, including car washes for school groups and Girl Scouts.

Framingham Selectmen voted unanimously to approve the liquor license, with hours until 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.