Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson Floats a Liquor Tax Increase in His 2025 Budget | Eater Chicago

"The Mexican restaurant that opened in 2018 is caught in the middle of a century-old liquor-ban zone that covers the blocks between Montrose, Lincoln, Sunnyside, and Damen. An Election Day ballot question affecting about 500 area voters asks whether residents want to continue the ban; its supporters, including 47th Ward Ald. Matt Martin, are urging people to vote "no," which would repeal the ban, and Martin calls the ban "outdated." The restaurant and a nearby Giordano’s are directly impacted; the establishment sees liquor sales as a lifeline as some restaurants continue to struggle even after COVID dining restrictions were lifted, especially because liquor sales are permitted across the street, creating an uneven playing field. There are also plans for a Small Cheval at 2156 W. Montrose nearby." - Ashok Selvam