Monday, June 24, 2013

Somerville Licensing Officials Question Burger Dive's Plan for Spiked Milkshakes, Wine and Beer

A fast-casual burger restaurant in Somerville is planning to serve alcohol, and while the city has given its approval, it apparently isn't too happy about it.

The Somerville Journal reports that the Licensing Commission approved an all-forms liquor license for Burger Dive in a 3-1 vote last week, though two of the officials questioned giving such a license to what they see as a family-friendly fast-food burger joint. The article quotes licensing commissioner John McKenna as saying "I'm disappointed that we've come into 2013 with this promised development and it's come down to giving a burger joint an all-forms," with commissioner Vito Vaccaro (who voted against it) comparing the Assembly Row eatery to McDonald's and Burger King.

In addition to wine and beer, Burger Dive also wants to offer spiked milkshakes.

Burger Dive is part of the Legendary Restaurant Group, which includes such spots as Papagayo, Max and Dylans, Sip, and Avery Provision. The website for the restaurant can be found at http://www.burgerdive.com/