The Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court has denied La Baguette’s request for an emergency stay of the City’s orders to shut the Ocean Drive restaurant down for allegedly serving alcohol to minors. The restaurant, notorious for online reviews of its so-called price “scams” was caught in a police sting operation in late January that resulted in the arrest of three employees for serving alcohol to underage customers and allowing open containers of alcohol to leave the restaurant premises. In addition, investigators noted the restaurant was not in compliance with the City’s price disclosure requirements.
Immediately after, City Manager Jimmy Morales revoked La Baguette's business license (BTR) for what he called “conduct that was a serious danger to the public health, welfare, or safety”. He also suspended the restaurant’s Sidewalk Café permit.
La Baguette filed a civil suit against the City four days later and sought an emergency stay, temporary restraining order, and injunctive relief. In a Letter to City Commissioners, Morales said an emergency hearing was scheduled for this past Monday at which time “Judge Jose M. Rodriguez … issued an Order summarily denying La Baguette’s request for injunctive relief against the City.”
Next step is a hearing before the City’s Special Master on February 13.
UPDATED February 12: Per City spokeswoman, La Baguette attorneys asked for a continuance of their hearing before the Special Master. A new date has not yet been scheduled.
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La Baguette Remains Closed After Court Denies Emergency Relief:
city issued emergency closure orders in january
restaurant known for "scams" ultimately flagged for underage alcohol sales
Animal Cruelty and Public Health Hazard Cited
commission will get recommendation along with sidewalk café ordinance
Permit was suspended since september for code violations
proposal would allow suspension, revocation, denial of sidewalk café permits
