Worcester Commission Suspended Mexicali Cantina Liquor License
The restaurant will lose its liquor license for 10 days after police found underage patrons drinking on the premises.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Food and Drink
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The Worcester License Commission has voted 3-0 to suspend the liquor license of Mexicali Cantina Grill for 10 total days. This disciplinary action follows a police inspection that identified 15 underage individuals consuming alcohol at the 225 Shrewsbury St. location.
Why it matters
The suspension was issued after law enforcement discovered that the establishment served alcohol to underage customers and lacked a proper manager on duty. The oversight highlights strict enforcement of local liquor policies to prevent underage drinking in Worcester businesses.
During the September 3 inspection, officers confiscated 10 fake out-of-state driver's licenses from patrons aged 17 to 20. The commission-mandated suspension totals 10 days, with the restaurant owner electing to serve the first five days over consecutive Thursdays.
The players
Worcester License Commission
This local government body is responsible for granting, monitoring, and disciplining liquor licenses within the city of Worcester.
Mexicali Cantina Grill
This restaurant is located at 225 Shrewsbury St. and operates as a dining establishment in the Worcester area.
The details
City enforcement units conducted the inspection on September 3 after receiving an initial complaint regarding underage drinking. Investigators found that the restaurant failed to have an approved manager on duty at the time of the site visit.
Timeline
August 27, 2026: A complaint was filed regarding underage drinking at the restaurant.
September 3, 2026: Police inspected the restaurant and identified 15 underage drinkers.
October 8, 2026: The Worcester License Commission voted to suspend the liquor license.
October 19, 2026: The five-day license suspension period begins.
October 23, 2026: The initial five-day license suspension period concludes.
Industry Dynamics
The enforcement action reflects a broader trend of increased municipal oversight regarding alcohol service standards in local hospitality venues. This decision follows established regulatory protocols designed to deter the use of fraudulent identification in public dining spaces.
Customers planning to visit the restaurant on Thursdays during the suspension period will not be able to purchase alcohol. These measures ensure that the establishment aligns with city safety standards before regular service resumes.
The takeaway
Establishments must maintain rigorous identity verification processes to avoid severe regulatory penalties and license suspensions. Restaurant owners should ensure that designated managers are always present to oversee compliance with local liquor laws.
Further reading
For more on local dining regulations, visit the Worcester Food and Drink section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Masslive.
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