New Kensington approves transfer of liquor license for downtown concert venue
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Concertgoers soon may be able to enjoy alcoholic beverages with the music at a growing downtown New Kensington concert venue.
Following a public hearing, New Kensington Council unanimously approved the transfer of a liquor license into the city for Preserving Underground, on 11th Street at Fifth Avenue.
The concert venue is housed in New Ken Social, a former Presbyterian church that previously was home to the New Kensington Salvation Army. It also is home to a record shop, called Preserving.
In addition to the basement concert venue, owner A.J. Rassau recently converted the former chapel into a performance space, hosting its first show March 25.
The transfer still needs to be approved by the state Liquor Control Board, which could take eight to 12 weeks, said Charles Caputo, an attorney representing Rassau.
The license would come into New Kensington from McNally’s Cafe & 6 Pack Shoppe in Sewickley Township, which closed in February 2022. The license is currently in safekeeping, according to the LCB.
Caputo said they were unable to find a license within New Kensington. They pursued two but were not able to contact their holders.
If the transfer is approved by the LCB, Caputo said, Rassau’s business would not change much. He said Rassau would hire between five and 10 people to work as bartenders and servers.
There would be food and seating for at least 30 people, which are requirements of the license, Caputo said. He said the menu is vegan and nonalcoholic beverages, or “mocktails,” would be available as well.
While Rassau also would be able to sell six-packs to go, he plans to sell drinks only during events.
“I have no interest outside of that,” he said.
When a resident asked where concertgoers would park, Mayor Tom Guzzo said they use a nearby lot along Barnes Street.
Police Chief Bob Deringer said city police have had no issues with the venue. Rassau said he is open to hiring off-duty police officers to work security.