Yotsuba Sushi owner seeks liquor license to enhance customer offerings in Denver

Boulder City residents are one step closer to enjoying a full dining experience at Yotsuba Sushi, as the Beverage Licensing Authority discussed the restaurant's application for a liquor license during their recent meeting on August 2, 2025. The establishment, which opened its doors on April 9 of this year, has received positive feedback from patrons eager to enjoy adult beverages alongside their meals.

Mister Lee, the restaurant's owner, shared insights into his decade-long experience in the restaurant industry, primarily in Denver, where he has not faced any liquor license violations. He noted that many customers have expressed interest in having alcohol available, with some even leaving to dine elsewhere due to the absence of such options.

The restaurant currently operates from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM, seven days a week, and Lee confirmed that the addition of a liquor license would not alter these hours. He currently employs three full-time staff members and indicated that he could manage the additional responsibilities that come with serving alcohol without needing to hire more employees immediately.

Lee has completed responsible vendor training and plans to ensure that his staff is adequately trained in alcohol service, including checking IDs and handling intoxicated patrons. He emphasized the importance of verifying identification, particularly with vertical IDs, and expressed his commitment to implementing policies to prevent service to underage customers.

The authority raised concerns about the lack of comprehensive training for staff regarding the identification of fake IDs and managing intoxicated customers. Lee acknowledged these concerns and indicated plans to acquire additional resources, such as ID scanners and training materials, to enhance staff preparedness.

As the meeting concluded, the authority did not make an immediate decision but highlighted the importance of responsible alcohol service in the community. If granted, the liquor license would not only enhance the dining experience at Yotsuba Sushi but also contribute to the local economy by attracting more customers. The next steps will involve further evaluation of the application and the establishment's readiness to meet the necessary training and operational standards.