Women Of NYC, Breathe Easy: Bottomless Brunch Is Legal Again

So remember that news about bottomless brunches being illegal? Take that information, flip it and reverse it because according to Business Insider, who delved into the story further, our binge brunching is still kosher after all (unless you add bacon, maybe).

After the New York City Hospitality Alliance put up a notice saying, “NYC restaurant and nightlife operators should familiarize themselves with the law,” trendy city girls and their besties went into mass hysteria (which ironically caused everyone to drink way more).

The story was in reference to NY 117-A, a law prohibiting unlimited drink offerings enacted at least five years ago in response to complaints of over-serving and intoxication at bars, NYC Hospitality Alliance counsel Robert Bookman told us.

But, don't worry! As any avid “Scandal” watcher knows, there's a loophole to the law! The New York State Liquor Association (SLA) says brunches don't fall under this jurisdiction because they are "events."

Aka, heavily boozing the next morning to wash away memories of your impromptu “Single Ladies” moment is now considered a momentous occasion that calls for celebration!

Serving unlimited drinks to a patron is prohibited under the Alcoholic Beverage Control law, and instances of over serving by our licensees will be investigated and prosecuted. However, there is a limited exception in the statute when the service of alcohol is incidental to the event, such as in the case of certain brunch specials. Even under these limited exceptions, licensees still have a legal obligation not to over serve patrons. The SLA will continue to take a balanced regulatory approach by allowing licensees to conduct specials where alcohol is an accompaniment, while simultaneously cracking down on specials that promote excessive drinking.

Let's all cheers to that! And, happy brunching!

H/T: Eater, Top Photo Courtesy: Day & Night