Overview: In a move that has left the owners of two La Crosse establishments reeling, city officials have denied liquor licenses for Tequila’s Bar & Grill and Citgo, citing allegations of serving minors. The decision comes in the wake of several convictions against these businesses for allowing underage patrons into their facilities.
The Full Story
Tequila’s Bar & Grill has been a staple in downtown La Crosse for years, attracting students from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with its affordable prices and lively atmosphere. However, over the past few years, allegations have surfaced that the establishment has allowed underage patrons into their facility.
Citgo on State Street is another business that has faced similar accusations. According to reports, city police found Malegra pills behind the counter at Citgo during a compliance check in 2024. The station also faces public attention for recent SUV fires near its gas pumps and allegations of illegal drug sales.
Production & Profile
The Tequila’s Bar & Grill brand has been around since 2015, when the building it occupies was originally constructed as a storage facility. In 2020, Michael Guerrero took over ownership from his father, who had operated the business for decades. Under Guerrero’s leadership, Tequila’s expanded its menu to include Mexican-inspired dishes and added a full bar.
Citgo on State Street is an older establishment in La Crosse. The building was constructed in 1925 as a gas station and has been owned by various companies over the years. In recent months, Citgo has faced public backlash for alleged drug sales and fires near its pumps.
Brand & Industry History
The city of La Crosse’s stance on underage drinking is rooted in a long history of concerns about this issue dating back to the 1980s. According to reports, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has been at the center of several high-profile incidents involving underage patrons and establishments serving minors.
La Crosse city officials have implemented various measures over the years aimed at curbing underage drinking in downtown La Crosse. These include regular liquor license inspections and increased surveillance by police officers patrolling local streets.
What This Means
The recent denial of liquor licenses for Tequila’s Bar & Grill and Citgo is likely to have significant implications for these businesses, as well as the broader community. Without their ability to sell alcohol, both establishments will struggle financially, leading to potential layoffs and job losses.
Furthermore, this decision highlights a growing concern about the city’s efforts in addressing underage drinking in La Crosse. Critics argue that while some measures have been implemented, more needs to be done to prevent minors from accessing alcohol.
Consumer Takeaway
In conclusion, the recent denial of liquor licenses for Tequila’s Bar & Grill and Citgo serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against underage drinking in La Crosse. As consumers become increasingly aware of these issues, businesses must adapt to changing consumer demands and expectations.
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