Economic development committee denies liquor license for Macocco’s Caribbean Restaurant

The West Allis Economic Development Committee voted to deny a new Class B tavern license for Macocco’s Caribbean Restaurant after members cited multiple health-code violations and evidence of alcohol sales without a valid permit.

Chair (Speaker 1) said staff records and receipts showed repeat compliance failures and an undercover purchase dated Sept. 16, 2025. The chair moved to deny the application and members seconded the motion.

The applicant, identified in the hearing as the owner (Speaker 3), described recent serious medical problems and staffing turnover that affected operations. “I had a major heart attack on the street… I didn't care about the business,” the owner said, adding that staff mistakes occurred while the owner dealt with recovery and financial hardship. The owner also said some issues — including dishwasher temperature and equipment problems — have been addressed.

Committee members acknowledged the owner’s health struggles but said the record showed repeated failures. One member (Speaker 4) told the owner the panel had acted similarly in other cases where alcohol was served without proper licensing and that repeated violations made it difficult to grant a license. The committee’s stated concern was public health and the risk of continued unpermitted alcohol sales.

After discussion the motion to deny carried and the chair said the owner could reapply in a year, by which time members suggested the business should demonstrate sustained corrective action and training.

The committee did not specify a formal penalty beyond denying the license application; staff noted that the denial reflects the committee’s responsibility to safeguard public health and enforce licensing rules.