Liquor license transfer sparks plans for rooftop wedding venue

A public hearing was held to discuss the transfer of a liquor license from Sam's East, Inc. to Bank Hospitality for a new event venue located at 8 West Market Street in Wilkes-Barre. Jessica Pleskach, representing Bank Hospitality, outlined the purpose of the license transfer, which is to facilitate the serving of alcoholic beverages at a rental space intended for weddings and other special events.

Pleskach emphasized that the venue will not operate as a typical restaurant but will be available for reservation only, primarily on weekends, with alcohol service concluding by 11 PM. She assured that all employees would undergo RAMP certification within 30 days of hiring, ensuring compliance with liquor laws, including responsible service practices.

The venue will feature a rooftop bar, which will host events, including weddings. While the exact capacity is still being determined, estimates suggest it could accommodate around 150 guests. Concerns regarding zoning and safety measures for the rooftop space were raised, with Pleskach indicating that discussions with city officials are ongoing to address these issues.

The hearing marks a significant step in the licensing process, which requires a thorough background check by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board before final approval. The community expressed enthusiasm for the potential of the venue, recalling successful past events held at the location.