Politics & Government

Pizza and Beer: Coming to Dedham Square Soon [VIDEO]

Dedham Board of Selectmen approve a liquor license for Dedham House of Pizza.

In about six weeks Dedham pizza lovers will be able to enjoy a slice of pepperoni pizza with a cold beer or glass of wine at the .

Selectmen voted Thursday to allow the pizza shop a beer and wine pouring license in a 3-1 vote.

Selectman Sarah MacDonald voted against the license, and selectman Jim MacDonald didn’t take part in discussions or the vote.

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The board quizzed co-owner Maria Panagopoulos on her lack of experience serving and overseeing a venue that serves alcohol, as well as the restaurant’s multi-faceted business model that incorporates take-out.

“If [people] are drinking while they are waiting and getting back in their car, should we be concerned?” Sarah MacDonald said during the public hearing Thursday. “That’s what I’m struggling with in the decision.”

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The Panagopoulos family, who bought the business in Dedham Square in the mid-1990s, almost moved the pizza shop out of the Square, but the deal fell through. Since then, they have spent $30,000 renovating the inside seating area, and are planning on installing new pizza ovens, Panagopoulos said.

“They are thinking that this will not only increase their business […] but it will also help maybe attract some more people to the Square,” said Kevin Hampe, an attorney for the restaurant.

Selectmen mandated that the pizza place purchase an ID card scanner and voted that the license come back to the town if the business ceases within five years.

One resident spoke out against the restaurant receiving a license, because he said the Square needs to hold onto a family restaurant without alcohol.

“I’ve stopped going to the area merchants because they serve alcohol,” said Michael Columbo. “I appreciate their business and I want them to do well, but not in the Square, not in a family restaurant.”

Other restaurant-goers praised and supported the addition of beer and wine to the pizza shop.

“I think it is a great thing for the Square,” said Joe Findlen. “I think they should be commended for making a commitment to the Square.”

Paradise Cafe License on Hold

Selectmen tabled a request by to obtain a beer and wine pouring license.

The food and coffee shop is transitioning away from video rentals as owner Ali Koushan liquidates his movie supply.

Square resident Michael Columbo raised a concern of the cafe sharing a space with another business, and an alley with .

Selectmen said they will consult with counsel take the matter up at their meeting on Sept. 8.


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