North Carolina Allows Cocktails To-Go

UPDATE MARCH 30 Gov. Cooper extended delivery and takeout mixed drinks through April 30.

WEB EXCLUSIVE On Monday, Governor Roy Cooper signed an executive order authorizing the North Carolina ABC Commission to allow mixed drinks to be delivered or carried out as an alternative to in-person consumption. The order is in effect from December 21 at 5 p.m. to March 31. Here’s what you need to know about the ruling and what local bars will be offering to-go cocktails.

Only businesses with certain ABC Commission permits are allowed to sell mixed drinks to-go or for delivery, including restaurants, hotels, private clubs, private bars and some distilleries.

“This order will help people avoid settings that can contribute to increased viral spread while giving restaurants and bars a financial boost that they need right now,” Gov. Cooper said in a statement. “With cases and hospitalizations high around the country, let’s all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19 while supporting local, small businesses safely.”

Know How to Go

You must have proof of age and identification. You will have to prove you are over 21 whether your cocktail is for carry-out or delivery.

Buyer must be recipient. The person who purchases the drink must be the person who receives it. That means your partner/spouse/friend/mother can’t pick up your carry-out cocktail.

How many? You can only purchase one at a time (it can be a double) and if you appear intoxicated the seller or delivery driver can refuse to give it to you. More than one drink can be delivered per house because multiple people live in the same house, but each purchaser must be present to receive their drink.

Can I buy a bottle of liquor? No. But they can sell you bottles of wine and/or beer.

Do I have to order food to get cocktail delivered? No.

Hours: Delivery or carry-out cocktails are available until 2 a.m. You can leave your home to pick one up. However, on premise sales still must end by 9 p.m.

Transporting cocktails to-go. Open container laws are still in effect. The sealed cocktail container must be kept in the passenger area of the car at all times.

For more details, read the full executive order here, or go to the state’s FAQ page.