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Commission continues Mandarin Asian Bistro liquor-license transfer hearing after questions on manager experience and language access
Summary
The commission postponed a public hearing on a proposed transfer of an all-alcohol restaurant license to LNG 2004 Inc. after commissioners raised concerns about the proposed manager’s experience serving alcohol and the need for an interpreter and documentation; the hearing was continued to April 17, 2025.
The Lowell City Commission continued to its April 17, 2025 meeting a public hearing on a proposed transfer of an all-alcohol restaurant license for 24 Market Street to LNG 2004 Inc., citing concerns about the proposed manager’s direct experience serving alcohol and a language barrier that prevented clear answers during the hearing.
Attorney Russell Chen, representing LNG 2004 Inc., said the applicant Shilang Lin was seeking approval to transfer the license from Lucky Lantern Inc. and apply for a common victualler and entertainment license. Chen said Lin has 14 years of restaurant experience. "We're here before you looking for a transfer of an all alcoholic beverage liquor license from the Lucky Lantern Inc., which is the current proprietor there," Chen told the commission.
Commissioners questioned whether Lin had on-the-job experience serving alcohol, handling over-service or service to minors, and whether he resided in Massachusetts. Lin, who answered through the Zoom audio, said he had worked about 14 years in restaurants but acknowledged limited direct experience serving alcohol and that English is not his strong language. Chair Howell and Commissioner Donoghue suggested the application be continued so the applicant could submit any TIP/ServSafe alcohol certification and appear with an interpreter.
Commissioner Krieger moved to continue the public hearing; Commissioner Mercier seconded. The commission voted to continue the hearing to April 17, 2025, at 6 p.m., and asked counsel to provide any training certificates and to ensure an interpreter is present at the next session.
During the discussion, Commissioner Donoghue recommended that the applicant include any TIP certification as a late filing to the application and that staff confirm the manager’s Massachusetts address. Attorney Chen agreed to assist with those items and to ensure an interpreter would be present at the continued hearing.
No final licensing decision was made; the matter will be placed on the April 17 agenda for further review.
