Selectmen Suspends Tahiti Restaurant's Alcohol License for Over-serving a Minor

Dedham selectmen suspended Tahiti Restaurant's alcohol license for six days after a violation hearing Thursday night.  The hearing was held because the restaurant over-served a minor on Dec. 15.

"The Mai's take any violations very seriously and this is the first violation of this nature in over 16 years," Peter Zahka, the attorney representing the owners told the selectmen.

According to Dedham police reports, a 20-year-old patron was served seven alcoholic beverages within a one hour span.  His blood alcohol level was at .36,  the legal limit in Massachusetts is .08.  He was later taken via ambulance to the hospital for alcohol poisoning.

Since the violation, the restaurant re-published alcohol policies and they plan on training their employees with Sgt. Buckley of the Dedham Police Department.

The owners also told the selectmen that they will enforce a two drink limit and card every patron who appears to be under the age of 25.

Chairman Carmen DelloIacono was satisfied that the restaurant was taking more precautions, but felt that there was more needed.

"Things happen, we understand, and the fact that you're working with Sgt. Buckley is good," Chairman DelloIacono said. "Unfortunately, it's a little late...but moving forward I would like to see certifications."

The restaurant's alcohol license will be suspended from Apr. 13, until Apr. 16. Out of the six day suspension, two of those will be removed after 24 months "with no complications."