The Chelsea Licensing Commission has postponed disciplinary hearings for two local restaurants, granting the businesses additional time to secure legal representation. The hearings for King Tacos at 388 Broadway and Rancho Las Pupusas at 36 Second Street have been rescheduled for August 13, 2026.

Police allege that King Tacos served alcohol to a 19-year-old who later became involved in a fight and damaged property. Officers also said video showed on-duty employees drinking at the restaurant.

Ranchos Las Pupusas is accused of serving eight beers over several hours to a customer who was later arrested for operating under the influence. Police also alleged that video showed on-duty employees drinking there. These allegations could result in disciplinary action if substantiated.

During the Commission’s July meeting, both cases were continued to August 13. The delay allows the restaurant owners to consult with or retain attorneys to represent them during the proceedings. The Commission made clear that this postponement would be the last—hearings will proceed in August without further delay.

The Licensing Process

The Chelsea Licensing Commission oversees alcohol and entertainment licenses within the city, ensuring that businesses comply with Massachusetts state law and local regulations. When police or city inspectors identify potential violations, the Commission holds hearings to review evidence, hear from all parties, and determine appropriate consequences.

Underage drinking violations carry particular weight in Massachusetts, where the legal drinking age is 21 and enforcement is strict. Restaurants found serving minors can face significant penalties, including mandatory staff retraining, temporary closure, or license revocation. Similarly, allowing staff to consume alcohol while working violates standard liquor license conditions and raises liability concerns.

Recent Precedent

The Commission has been active in enforcing compliance standards. In May 2026, El Kiosco at 212 Broadway received a five-day suspension for camera violations and an employee drinking while working. Commission members noted that camera and staff drinking issues have become the two biggest concerns at licensed establishments in Chelsea.

King Tacos, also known as Las Vegas Restaurant & Bar, has operated at 388 Broadway as an Ecuadorian and Mexican restaurant serving tacos, pupusas, and other Latin American cuisine. Rancho Las Pupusas at 36 Second Street specializes in Salvadoran cuisine, particularly pupusas—traditional corn dough stuffed with cheese, beans, and meat. Both establishments serve alcohol as part of their operations.

What Happens Next

No final disciplinary findings have been made against either establishment. The August 13 hearings will provide an opportunity for the restaurant owners to respond to the allegations, present evidence, and make their case before the Commission. The Commission will then determine whether violations occurred and what penalties, if any, are appropriate.

For residents, these cases highlight the ongoing work of city agencies to enforce alcohol-service regulations and maintain public safety. The Licensing Commission's meetings are open to the public, and the August 13 session will be an opportunity for community members to observe how the city handles compliance matters.