Berkley Merchants Give Sunday Morning Liquor Sales Mixed Reception

A new state law that allows alcohol sales before noon on Sundays received a mixed reception from businesses in Berkley when it took effect over the weekend.

While bars and restaurants saw a potential benefit in applying for the permit, liquor stores were not as enthusiastic.

"It's not like people are here waiting for liquor," said clerk Avis Haddad. "Plus, church is going on."

He said the law also allows for sales on Christmas Day, even without a permit. But Tweeney's still is debating whether to open on the holiday.

The sentiment was much the same at .

"Personally, I don't think opening at our regular hour – we open at 10 a.m. the rest of the week – on Sunday is worth it," said night manager Vince Jamil. He added it would be different if the store were located near a college campus or sports stadiums. "I think the license benefits the bars and casinos."

Bob Bronstein, owner of , agreed.

"My goal is to get people here early to tailgate and then take the shuttle downtown to the game," said Bronstein, who has applied for the annual permit, which costs $160.

He said 24 Seconds will open early on Sundays only during football season and for special events if it receives a permit. Next year, Bronstein said he plans to hold a breakfast buffet during football season. He'll also be open this year on Christmas.

"It's an old law that needed to be changed," he said.

also stands to benefit from the law.

General manger Scott Rose said the restaurant is waiting to hear if Berkley will allow liquor sales before noon and, if so, will apply for a permit.

"We have a lot of requests for (alcohol sales before noon)," he said. "The kind of dining we do, people like to have a mimosa or a bloody Mary with breakfast, and Sunday is our biggest breakfast day."