Etobicoke bar facing loss of liquor license amid allegations of selling alcohol stolen from the LCBO speaks out

An outside shot of Southside Johnny’s Bar and Grill at 3653 Lakeshore Blvd. W. in Etobicoke. (Goodgle Maps/image)

A bar in south Etobicoke is speaking out after the regulator recently announced that it is moving forward to revoke its liquor license amid allegations that its owner and manager knowingly and repeatedly bought and sold alcohol that was stolen from the LCBO.

In a statement posted on social media on Monday afternoon, Southside Johnny’s Bar and Grill, at 3653 Lakeshore Blvd. W., thanked its customers, friends, and neighbours for their “overwhelming support, kind messages, and loyalty” during this time, underlining that they’re “open for business and fully licensed to serve liquor.”

‘Ongoing false and misleading information’

The bar went on to say that it is issuing the statement to follow up and address the “ongoing false and misleading information being circulated about Southside Johnny’s.”

“Much of what is being shared is inaccurate and does not reflect the truth of who we are or how we operate. We are continuing to address and appeal these matters through the appropriate channels,” it said.

“We remain committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable space for our community.”

On Dec. 9, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario announced that it has issued a Notice of Proposal to revoke the liquor license of the popular live music venue.

• Etobicoke bar accused of repeatedly buying alcohol stolen from LCBO

The AGCO’s investigation, which was conducted with police, found the liquor in question was allegedly stolen from a nearby LCBO and that the products were then stored at the bar. It is further alleged the contents of some larger bottles were poured into smaller ones to fit Southside Johnny’s dispensing system.

The liquor, the regulator said, was sold to patrons and for personal use.

“Purchasing stolen liquor is a serious breach of integrity that not only violates the law but compromises public safety and introduces illegal goods into Ontario’s regulated alcohol market,” Dr. Karin Schnarr, AGCO’s CEO and registrar, said in a statement.

“Ontarians can trust the AGCO to continue holding licensees accountable for complying with all regulatory requirements that help make a safe and responsible marketplace for everyone.”

The owner of Southside Johnny’s Bar and Grill can appeal the notice to the Licence Appeal Tribunal within 15 days of its issuance.

CP24 has reached out to Southside Johnny’s for further comment.