Café 8 Cleared to Reopen Immediately

Café 8 Cleared to Reopen Immediately

by Larry Janezich

Posted Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Wednesday afternoon, the DC Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) voted 6-0 to lift the suspension of Café 8’s liquor license.  The suspension was lifted immediately by ABCA’s acceptance of an “Offer In Compromise” negotiated by the DC Office of Attorney General (OAG) and submitted to the Board this morning.  The conditions amounted to an enhanced security plan and a $4000 fine for violations of DC Code. 

The terms of the compromise included increasing the number of security personnel from 4 to 6 Thursday – Sunday after 5:00pm until closing.  Additional security requirements include training for all staff on terms of the security plan, a requirement that all patrons show a valid ID and submit to a search for weapons, illegal drugs, or alcohol by using metal detector hand held wands and pat downs. 

Under questioning by the Donovan Anderson, Board Chair, Assistant Attorney General Sophia Mietus (OAG) said that it is the position of the government that the Board accept the Offer in Compromise.  The Board then voted unanimously to accept it.