Gordon’s Liquors owner questioned over unused free liquor license

The Waltham License Commission called David Gordon, current co-owner of Gordon’s Liquors, to appear in front of the board during its February meeting. Gordon had received a free liquor license in 2023 as part of a release of four free liquor licenses by the state based on Waltham’s increased population. Hundreds of businesses applied, but only four applicants received the licenses.

Gordon applied for a free license with an idea for a restaurant named after his late grandfather, Ira “Sonny” Gordon, who started the Gordon’s Liquors business. The restaurant, called Sonny’s Restaurant, was planned for 888 Main St., a location owned by Gordon’s father. The free license was released to Gordon in May 2025. However, no official permits or plans have been filed for the restaurant.

“We gave you consideration to build Sonny’s place because of your family and your status in the community. You’ve been good to the community and the community appreciates that,” said Commission Chair Wayne F. Brasco during the meeting. “We can’t in good faith give you a license for nothing that other people have been paying for years.”

Gordon explained that the lack of action on the restaurant project was due to a slow down in retail business, but the family was ready to recommit to the project. He asked for three to six months to submit permits and move the project forward.

Commissioner Kevin Ritcey asked about the “for lease” sign on the restaurant building, which Gordon said his father put up to gauge interest in the building. Ritcey said his concern was that Gordon would sell the restaurant with the liquor license attached to make a profit. Gordon said that this was not his intention.

Brasco and Ritcey decided to allow Gordon to still hold the liquor license provided that all required permits are in by June 1 and that the liquor license cannot be sold for profit for 24 months after the restaurant opens.