Toku Modern Asian in Manhasset Has Liquor License Suspended After Alleged Social Distancing Violations

Toku Modern Asian in Manhasset had its liquor license suspended after New York State authorities said the eatery violated rules meant to curb the spread of coronavirus.

State Liquor Authority (SLA) investigators found 118 people crowded inside the premises with a maximum capacity of 90 and 67 people in the outdoor dining area with a maximum capacity of 32, among other violations on Friday, officials said.

”Investigators with the state’s multi-agency task force observed a long line of patrons not socially distanced waiting to enter the premises, with just a handful wearing face masks,” the SLA said. “Investigators also observed numerous patrons buying drinks from the bar without food and taking them outside to consume.“

Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s executive orders require restaurant staffers and patrons wear masks, maintain social distancing, and limit the number of patrons allowed in eateries at a time to prevent COVID-19 from spreading. Patrons also must order food when buying alcoholic beverages.

The latest SLA suspension on LI comes after the SLA recently suspended the liquor licenses of Dox, a restaurant in Island Park, Secrets Gentlemen’s Club, a Deer Park strip club, Southampton restaurants 75 Main and Blu Mar, Sazon Ramirez II, a store in Roosevelt, and Off Key Tikki, a bar in Patchogue. Mio Post in Long Beaxh and EB Elliots in Freeport also reportedly had their licenses suspended.

Toku Modern Asian remains open for business at its location in the Americana Manhasset, but no alcohol is being served. The owners were not immediately available for comment.

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