Food and alcoholic beverages are inextricably intertwined. Alcohol often enhances and complements all types of food. It’s hard not to imagine going out to a French or Italian restaurant and not having wine with your meal.
Because eating and drinking are so closely related, it only makes sense that people training in the culinary arts should also understand the types of drinks that go with their food. However, since we don’t typically associate higher education with alcoholic drinks, at least in official classroom settings, it begs the question of whether Florida culinary education programs can sell alcohol at their events. The answer is “yes,” as long as certain requirements are met.
What programs are eligible for a license?
In 2016, the Florida Legislature carved out a special license category for culinary education programs. To be eligible for a license, the culinary education program must be associated with a state university, college institution, or career center. The program must operate a public food service establishment that complies with all applicable sanitation laws.
The license also enables culinary education programs to serve alcohol at catered events. However, the license does not allow for the serving of alcohol at such events on its own. The program that holds the license is also required to serve food that it has prepared at the event. This type of license does not allow sales for off-premises consumption.
The importance of working with a professional
Florida’s alcohol and beverage laws can be complicated. It’s important to have a skilled professional on your side who can help guide you through the licensing process. Whether you’re involved with an educational program or need help with another alcoholic beverage law related matter, working with legal counsel can help you avoid potential problems down the road.