Update (Sept. 14): In an email to ABC15 on Monday, the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control said investigators visited Zipps Sports Grill, 414 Pub & Pizza, and Loco Patron after ASU President Michael Crow's letter and "found no violations of the business requirements as published by the Arizona Department of Health Services on the day of the visits."
Investigators did not visit Kung Fu Tea, as it does not have a liquor license and does not serve alcohol on is menu.
Original story:
ABC15 has obtained a letter and photos sent to Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ by Arizona State University President Michael Crow alleging multiple bars on Mill Avenue in Tempe have violated COVID-19 health guidelines.
Crow alleges several restaurant-bars near the school’s Tempe campus have violated the safety protocols businesses must abide by to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Crow sent the letter to both Dr. Cara Christ and the head of the state Department of Liquor Licenses and Control about the alleged violations by some Mill Avenue eating and drinking establishments.
Crow also attached photos from each of the establishments from Saturday, Sept. 5, and Sunday, Sept. 6 as evidence.
"I wanted to bring them to your personal attention because of the importance of the enforcement of the rules for the reopening and operation of restaurants which serve alcohol during this time of global pandemic," Crow said in the letter.
Crow also says three of the restaurants were repeat offenders.
The establishments named in the letters are:
- Zipps Sports Grills
- 414 Pub & Pizza
- Loco Patron
- Kung Fu Tea
"Zipps Sports Grills has been conducting business in the Valley for over 25 years, this would not be possible without continuously working diligently to adhere to all state and city guidelines and restrictions," a Zipps Sports Grills spokesperson said in a statement. "While we appreciate President Crow taking such an interest in our Operation, our responsibility is to comply with AZ Department of Liquor and Maricopa Department of Health. When it comes to the safety and well-being of our employees and guests, we will continue to rely on their guidance and direction."
View the letter and photos sent to AZDHS below:
Attachment A:
Attachment B:
