New Jersey Makes Cocktails to-Go Permanent

Cocktails to-go aren’t going anywhere in New Jersey.

Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed a new law Friday making the pandemic-era option permanent, allowing qualifying bars, restaurants and other businesses to keep selling mixed drinks to customers for takeout.

The option started during COVID, when restaurants were looking for ways to stay afloat while dining rooms were closed or operating under restrictions. It stuck around long after those restrictions disappeared, but the law allowing it was set to expire Sept. 1.

Now, it’s permanent.

Mixed drinks still have to be sold in closed, sealed containers. The law also allows eligible businesses to deliver certain alcoholic beverages to customers 21 and older, while beer, hard seltzer and similar drinks can be delivered in their original sealed packaging.

Craft distilleries get some additional flexibility under the law as well, including expanded options for selling certain drinks and products to-go.

The bill, S-4384, passed the state Legislature with bipartisan support and was signed by Sherrill on Aug. 28. It took effect immediately.

For restaurants and bars that have kept cocktails to-go on the menu since the pandemic, what started as a temporary lifeline is now a permanent part of doing business in New Jersey.