Story, one of Miami’s most popular nightclubs, has closed its doors after the city implemented a 2 a.m. alcohol curfew.
The attorneys for the club have been embroiled in a legal battle with Miami Beach over the curfew, which greatly impacts the nightlife in the area. A judge previously allowed a 30-day stay which expired last week. Now, clubs and bars may no longer serve liquor after 2 a.m., which Story says will “indisputably” put them out of business. Attorney John Crabtree called out the city for such a move.
“Cities are not czars. They are not empowered to go door to door determining the fate of each business in their jurisdiction,” Crabtree argued.
Story will remain closed during the appeal process, an uphill battle for the venue. Another ruling likely won’t arrive for several months. The city has ruled that any businesses that held a license to serve alcohol until 5:00 a.m. must now stop three hours earlier. The only exception is for venues with an occupancy of 100 or fewer people. Those venues may continue offering liquor until the morning. During the court battle, Story’s team pointed out that the club brings in nearly 88% of its alcohol revenue between 2:00 and 5:00 a.m. The temporary stay allowed the club to stay in business briefly, but it looks like their time is up.
This week, the club sat shuttered, a reopening date unknown. On Google, Story is listed as “temporarily closed.” As for employees, Story is relocating them to other clubs they’re affiliated with.
