Worcester Commission Approved Peppercorn's License Transfer

The city has cleared the path for Joseph and Ben Kaplan to acquire the long-standing Park Avenue restaurant.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Dining Out

Worcester Commission Approved Peppercorn's License Transfer

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The Worcester License Commission approved the transfer of an all-alcohol license along with entertainment and common victualer permits for Peppercorn's Grille. This decision supports the acquisition plan of Joseph and Ben Kaplan, who already manage several other local dining establishments.

Why it matters

The approval signals a major ownership transition for a restaurant that has been a staple of the Park Avenue area since its founding in 1995. While the commission has cleared the regulatory path, the sale of the business itself between current owner Thomas M. Oliveri and the Kaplan brothers has yet to be finalized.

The transaction follows Thomas M. Oliveri's $1.05 million purchase of the restaurant real estate from Clark University in December 2025. The restaurant has operated at its Park Avenue location since Thomas J. Oliveri first established the business in 1995.

The players

Joseph and Ben Kaplan

The brothers are experienced local restaurateurs who own and operate Lakeside Bar & Grille, Herbie's, and Center Tree Bar & Grill.

Thomas M. Oliveri

He is the current owner of the Park Avenue restaurant who previously purchased the underlying real estate.

Worcester License Commission

This municipal body is responsible for regulating business permits and alcohol licenses within the city of Worcester.

The details

Joseph and Ben Kaplan, who operate establishments including Lakeside Bar & Grille and Center Tree Bar & Grill, have successfully petitioned the city for the transfer of permits. The commission's vote on October 8, 2026, officially authorizes the transfer of the alcohol, common victualer, and entertainment licenses required for the brothers to move forward with the purchase.

Peppercorn's Grille was originally established in 1995.
Thomas J. Oliveri passed away in 2017.
Thomas M. Oliveri purchased the restaurant real estate in December 2025.
The Worcester License Commission approved the license transfers on October 8, 2026.

Culture Shift

This move reflects the broader consolidation of independent dining establishments in the region, where experienced hospitality groups often step in to preserve legacy brands. Such transitions highlight the ongoing shift toward professionalized management models in the local restaurant market.

Customers can expect business at the Park Avenue location to continue under current operations until the sale is formally closed by the parties. Future changes to the menu, service, or branding will depend on the final transition strategy implemented by the incoming owners.

The takeaway

The approval of license transfers is a critical regulatory milestone that often precedes the final exchange of ownership for established local businesses. Prospective buyers and sellers typically manage these municipal filings well in advance of finalizing private financial terms.