Title
Liquor License - Champagne Cafe and Lounge - District 4
Description
Request for a liquor license. Arizona State License Application 357120.
License Information
Summary
Applicant
Sarah Griffin, Agent
License Type
Series 12 - Restaurant
Location
4835 N. 15th Avenue
Zoning Classification: C-2 TOD-1
Council District: 4
This request is for a new liquor license for a restaurant. This location was not previously licensed for liquor sales and does not have an interim permit. This business has plans to open in November 2025.
The 60-day limit for processing this application is October 12, 2025.
Pursuant to A.R.S. 4-203, a spirituous liquor license shall be issued only after satisfactory showing of the capability, qualifications and reliability of the applicant and that the public convenience and the best interest of the community will be substantially served by the issuance. If an application is filed for the issuance of a license for a location, that on the date the application is filed has a valid license of the same series issued at that location, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the public convenience and best interest of the community at that location was established at the time the location was previously licensed. The presumption shall not apply once the licensed location has not been in use for more than 180 days.
Other Active Liquor License Interest in Arizona
This applicant does not hold an interest in any other active liquor license in the State of Arizona.
Public Opinion
One letter protesting the issuance of this license has been received and is on file in the Office of the City Clerk. The letter is from a local resident who feels the area is oversaturated with liquor licenses. The resident is also concerned with the proximity of the business to a nearby school and feels the addition of this liquor license will not benefit the community.
Applicant’s Statement
The applicant submitted the following statement in support of this application. Spelling, grammar and punctuation in the statement are shown exactly as written by the applicant on the City Questionnaire.
I have the capability, reliability and qualifications to hold a liquor license because:
“I am a very responsible person. I have great instincts and think well on my feet. While I am a peaceful and friendly person. My first responsibility is safety. I take policy very seriously.”
The public convenience requires and the best interest of the community will be substantially served by the issuance of the liquor license because:
“Phoenix is my hometown. I will be sure to be a positive influence in the community. I attend church in the community and feed the homeless during the holidays.I love people of all backgrounds.”
Staff Recommendation
Staff gave careful consideration to the protest letter received, however after reviewing the application in its entirety staff is recommending approval of this application.
Attachments
Attachment A - Champagne Cafe and Lounge - Data
Attachment B - Champagne Cafe and Lounge - Map
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Alan Stephenson and the City Clerk Department.