If you live in New York or plan to visit, you might be wondering when you can and can’t buy alcohol. Whether you’re picking up wine for a dinner party or planning a night out with friends, it’s good to know the rules. New York has different laws depending on where you buy alcohol—like a store, bar, or restaurant—and what day it is. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to follow.
When Can You Buy Alcohol in Liquor and Wine Stores?
In New York, liquor and wine can only be sold at licensed stores for off-premises drinking. This means you can buy it at the store and take it home, but you can’t drink it there.
Here’s when you can buy liquor and wine at stores:
- Monday to Saturday: From 9:00 AM to midnight
- Sundays: From 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
These hours are based on state law, but some counties or cities may set earlier closing times. For example, a county might require liquor stores to close at 9:00 PM instead of midnight. Always check local laws if you’re unsure.
Before October 2023, liquor stores couldn’t open before noon on Sundays. But thanks to a new law signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, they can now open at 10:00 AM. This change gives shoppers more time—especially helpful during busy seasons like the holidays or football Sundays.
What About Beer? When Can Grocery and Convenience Stores Sell It?
Unlike liquor and wine, beer can be sold in grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores.
In most places in New York, beer can be sold at almost any time of the day or night, depending on the store’s regular hours. However, like with liquor, local rules can change this. For example, some areas might not allow beer sales after 2:00 AM. Others may allow 24-hour sales.
So, while state law is more relaxed with beer, it’s still smart to know the rules where you are.
What Time Do Bars and Restaurants Stop Serving Alcohol?
If you’re going out to eat or planning a night at a bar, the rules are different.
In New York State, bars and restaurants can serve alcohol until 4:00 AM. But that’s not the full story. Here’s how it works:
- Last call is usually around 4:00 AM
- Hard closing time is 4:30 AM. This means everyone must leave by then, and the alcohol must be put away.
Again, counties can set their own closing times. Some counties might force bars to close earlier—like 2:00 AM or even midnight. So if you’re out late in a new neighborhood, don’t be surprised if the bar shuts down earlier than expected.
Can Counties or Cities Make Stricter Rules?
Yes, they can.
Even though the state gives general rules for alcohol sales, each county or city can decide to make the rules tighter. Some areas choose to close liquor stores earlier. Others might not allow late-night bar hours.
For example, in Albany County, liquor stores must close at 9:00 PM—even though the state says midnight is okay. Local community boards or city councils often make these choices based on what residents want.
Recent Changes to Alcohol Laws in New York
In October 2023, a set of new laws were passed to help businesses that sell alcohol. Here are a few highlights:
- Liquor and wine stores can now open at 10:00 AM on Sundays, instead of waiting until noon.
- Beer, cider, and mead can be sold on any day of the week.
- Breweries no longer need to renew their licenses every year. Now it’s every three years, which helps them focus more on making and selling beer.
- Bars and liquor stores can now use special machines to serve and store drinks.
These changes aim to support small businesses and give customers more flexibility when buying alcohol.
Alcohol Sales in New York
- Liquor/Wine Stores:
- Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Some counties may require earlier closing times
- Beer (Grocery & Convenience Stores):
- Often sold anytime, depending on local laws and store hours
- Bars & Restaurants:
- Can serve alcohol until 4:00 AM
- Must close by 4:30 AM
- Some counties limit this to earlier times
- Local Rules Matter:
- Always check what’s allowed in your county or city
Need Help Understanding Alcohol Laws in NYC?
Alcohol laws can be confusing, especially when local rules change from one block to the next. If you’re a business owner dealing with liquor licenses, or someone who got into legal trouble related to alcohol sales or consumption, we’re here to help. Rodriguez Law in NYC knows New York’s alcohol laws inside and out.
Call us at (212) 960-3305 if you have questions about selling alcohol, getting a license, or handling alcohol-related charges. Our team is here to walk you through it, clearly and simply.