Boston’s restaurant scene will expand following the City’s Licensing Board approval of four new liquor licenses. Restaurants in East Boston, Roxbury, and the South End will be authorized to serve alcohol, according to the City of Boston.
Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her support for the initiative, "These zip code-restricted licenses awarded to local businesses will strengthen our neighborhoods, expand opportunities for business owners, and support the vibrancy of Boston’s communities," she told the City of Boston. They're encouraging more applications for the remaining zip code-restricted licenses set to become available at the start of 2026.
The four newly approved establishments include El Barrio Mexican Grill and Mondo in the South End, The Mix Vault in Roxbury, and Bono Restaurant and Catering in East Boston. This approval comes after Governor Maura Healey signed legislation in 2024 that added 225 new liquor licenses in Boston, marking the largest increase since Prohibition ended.
"It’s incredible to see businesses like The Mix expanding their brand into Roxbury as ‘The Vault’ and thriving in spaces that once symbolized exclusion in our city," State Senator Liz Miranda stated to the City of Boston. The initiative supports business growth and aims to increase economic opportunities.
The City of Boston is pressing ahead with its efforts to ramp up applications from local business owners for the remaining 65 neighborhood restricted licenses available next year. State officials and local representatives have praised the transformative effect of the legislation, with City Councilor Brian Worrell calling it "a game-changer."
Kathleen Joyce, Chair of the Boston Licensing Board, highlighted the city's commitment to support potential applicants, "We appreciate these thoughtful applications and are encouraged by the continued interest in these new liquor licenses," Joyce remarked in a recent update.
Aspiring licensees can seek help from the Mayor’s Office of Licensing and Consumer Affairs and participate in virtual office hours hosted by the Licensing Board. Details about applying for a liquor license can be found on the Licensing Board website.
