California ABC Issues 15 Liquor Licenses in Valley

Central Valley establishments received new permits between September 21 and October 4, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Isometric editorial illustration of two glass tumblers on a wooden surface, representing alcohol licensing in the California Central Valley. — The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control issued 15 new liquor licenses to Central Valley establishments from September 21 to October 4, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Does the addition of new liquor-licensed establishments in your area improve or hurt community safety?

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control issued 15 liquor licenses to businesses across the Central Valley between Sept. 21 and Oct. 4, 2026. These permits cover a variety of service types, including beer, wine, and full liquor sales.

Why it matters

These licenses allow local restaurants and retailers to expand their beverage offerings for customers, directly impacting how establishments operate in the Central Valley. The state-issued permits provide the necessary legal compliance for on-site consumption and off-site sales.

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control authorized 15 new liquor licenses for establishments across nine Central Valley cities. These include specialized permits for six Me-N-Ed's Pizzeria locations and two Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants.

The players

California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control

This state agency is responsible for the administration and enforcement of laws regarding the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Me-N-Ed's Pizzeria

This is a prominent restaurant chain that was granted liquor licenses for six of its regional locations.

Buffalo Wild Wings

This is an international sports bar and restaurant chain that received liquor licenses for two locations.

The details

The issued permits range from Type 21 off-sale licenses for liquor stores to Type 47 and 48 licenses that authorize on-premises alcohol service. Establishments receiving the licenses are spread throughout Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, Bakersfield, Hanford, Porterville, Kerman, Madera, and Huron.

The issuance period for the liquor licenses began on Sept. 21, 2026.
The issuance period for the liquor licenses concluded on Oct. 4, 2026.

Market Landscape

This wave of licensing reflects the ongoing expansion of beverage service options within regional restaurant chains and local retailers. Such growth underscores a competitive push to enhance customer dining experiences across the Central Valley's hospitality sector.

Customers can expect expanded drink menus at participating Me-N-Ed's and Buffalo Wild Wings locations. These changes may lead to updated dining options or new retail alcohol availability at convenience stores in your local area.

The takeaway

Businesses must navigate specific regulatory classifications, such as Type 21 or Type 47 permits, to legally offer alcohol to the public. Residents should check with their local establishments to see if these new liquor licenses result in updated menus or service hours.