New York is a great place to visit and live in. But what is this state like when it comes to selling alcohol, liquor in particular? Is it easy to shop for?
Do grocery stores sell liquor in New York?
No, in New York grocery stores aren’t allowed to sell liquor. Liquor, and also wine, can only be sold in licensed liquor stores in New York.
There is more to the alcohol laws in New York, so read on if you want to learn more about where to buy some liquor (and wine) in that state.
Why Can’t Grocery Stores Sell Liquor in New York?
In 1934, the year after the prohibition of alcohol ended, the New York State Liquor Authority (NYSLA) and the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (DABC) started their work. Those two agencies control what happens with alcohol production, distribution, and sales within New York.
They decided that grocery stores are not allowed to sell liquor. Grocery stores in New York aren’t even allowed to sell wine (only “wine products” like wine coolers).
Do Target Or Walmart Sell Liquor In New York?
Neither Walmart nor Target are liquor stores, so they are not allowed to sell liquor and wine in their New York stores.
Of course, this can lead to confusion for people who are used to buying their liquor in Walmart or Target in more relaxed states.
Where Can You Buy Liquor In New York?
People can only buy liquor in licensed liquor stores in New York or via online delivery.
Until the mid-2000s, liquor stores were not allowed to open on Sundays, but now they can do so if they want (only after noon).
The alcohol on-demand delivery market is also becoming more competitive, so you have a selection of options if you want liquor or other alcohol delivered.
You can also buy liquor for on-premise consumption in establishments with the appropriate license, such as bars and restaurants.
Related Questions
Why Are Alcohol Laws So Different In US states?
The sale of alcohol, especially liquor and wines with a high percentage of alcohol, is strictly regulated in the USA – in some states more than in others.
There are states where you can buy liquor in grocery stores without issues (as long as you are 21 years old!). In other states, you can only buy liquor in liquor stores, and some states even have a monopoly on the sale of alcohol. In states like Oregon, you will find state-owned liquor stores only.
The differences started after 1933. That’s when the prohibition of alcohol in the USA ended. After its end, each state received the right to make its own laws about alcohol and its distribution and sales.
It makes sense when you look at the states with stricter alcohol laws and compare these laws to how strict they are concerning other topics. You will often find that more religious states have stricter alcohol laws.
Why Are There No Liquor Store Chains In New York State?
New York state laws are quite strict and a bit different from other states regarding the ownership of liquor stores.
It is a requirement that the owner lives close to the actual premises and does not own another business of the same type. This means liquor stores are always owned and run by individuals. Chains are not allowed to open liquor stores in New York.
Final Thoughts
New York is one of many states that do not allow grocery stores to sell liquor. New York is even stricter than some others as it also does not allow the sale of wine in grocery stores (you can only get beer in those).
This does not mean that you need to go without, though. Delivery services and liquor stores are plentiful, and you will likely find a liquor store nearby. If not, then delivery is the easy and very convenient solution.
- Read our related alcohol articles:
- Do Grocery Stores Sell Liquor in Tennessee?
- Do Grocery Stores Sell Liquor in Oregon?
- Do Grocery Stores Sell Liquor in Arizona?
- Do Grocery Stores Sell Liquor in Texas?
- Do Grocery Stores Sell Wine in the United States?
- Do Grocery Stores Sell Liquor in California?
- Do Grocery Stores Sell Liquor in Florida?
