Can You Take Alcohol To-Go from a Restaurant in Texas? A Comprehensive Guide
Texas has experienced significant changes in its alcohol laws in recent years, particularly regarding the ability to take alcoholic beverages to-go from restaurants. This guide will clarify the current regulations and answer some frequently asked questions.
The Short Answer: Yes, under certain circumstances, you can take alcohol to-go from a restaurant in Texas. However, there are specific rules and regulations you need to be aware of.
What are the rules for taking alcohol to-go in Texas?
The ability to take alcoholic beverages to-go from a restaurant in Texas is largely tied to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code. Crucially, the law allows for the sale of mixed alcoholic beverages to-go, but only if they meet specific requirements:
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Sealed Container: The alcoholic beverage must be sealed in a container approved by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). This isn't just any container; it needs to be tamper-evident and specifically designed for to-go alcoholic beverage sales.
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Purchased with a Food Order: The to-go alcoholic beverages must be purchased with a food order. This isn't a small snack; it's meant to be a substantial meal. The TABC provides guidelines on this, but essentially, it should be a comparable purchase to what you'd get when dining in.
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Specific Time Limits: There are time restrictions. While the specifics might vary slightly by city or county ordinance, generally, to-go alcohol sales are limited to specific hours of the day. Check with your local establishment to confirm their hours.
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Limited Quantities: There are usually limits on the quantity of alcohol you can purchase to-go with a single food order. Again, this is something to confirm with the restaurant.
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Proper Identification: You must be of legal drinking age and present valid identification when ordering alcohol to-go.
What types of alcohol can I take to-go?
Currently, the law primarily covers mixed alcoholic beverages, such as cocktails, margaritas, or beer mixed with other ingredients. The ability to take beer or wine to-go may depend on the establishment's license type and local regulations. It's best to check with the restaurant directly to confirm what they offer.
Can I take sealed bottles of wine or beer to-go?
This depends on the specific restaurant and its TABC license type. While mixed beverages are primarily covered, some restaurants may have permits to allow sealed wine or beer to-go sales. Always inquire at the restaurant itself before ordering.
Are there any exceptions or special circumstances?
Local ordinances may slightly modify these rules. While the state sets the general framework, individual cities or counties could have further restrictions or additions to the regulations. Always check with the specific establishment for their policies and procedures concerning to-go alcoholic beverages.
What happens if I violate the rules?
Violating the rules regarding to-go alcohol sales can result in penalties for both the establishment and the customer. This could include fines or other legal repercussions. It's crucial to respect and follow the regulations.
This information is for guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always check with the relevant authorities and the specific restaurant for the most up-to-date and accurate information. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) website is a valuable resource for the latest regulations.
