Westmont approves temporary liquor license for Dolce as new owners plan Greek tavern

The Westmont Village Board on April 30 approved a temporary class 2 liquor license for Dolce at 13 North Cass Avenue to keep already-booked events running while new owners complete required background checks.

Deputy Liquor Commissioner Muller told the board the temporary license is available for an existing business undergoing an ownership change and is intended to prevent interruptions to scheduled events. "It's a liquor license that liquor commissioners are allowed to issue to a business on a temporary basis ... In this case, we're talking about Dolce," Muller said, explaining that staff expects the background check to be finished within one to two months and that the owners will return to request a permanent license.

Prospective owner Sophia Papa George Carallis, who said she and her husband operate Brian's American Grill in Downer's Grove, asked the board to approve the temporary license so planned graduations, weddings and other events "can proceed without interruption." She described menu and service changes, including seed-oil-free cooking and the plan to open for lunch next month. Carallis said the owners intend to convert Dolce into "an authentic Greek tavern" with Greek entertainment by late summer.

Trustees voted to approve the temporary license by roll call. The motion passed with all trustees present voting yes. Deputy Liquison Commissioner Muller and Sophia Carallis said the owners will return to the board for a permanent license after background checks are complete.