Arlington Heights considers allowing open containers for proposed 'sip and stroll' in alfresco zone

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (WLS) -- A pandemic-era outdoor dining solution that became a summer staple in Arlington Heights may soon expand to include to-go cocktails, as village officials weigh a proposed "sip and stroll" program for the downtown alfresco zone.

The pedestrian-only area, which spans four blocks, has remained a busy warm-weather destination for restaurants and visitors. Larry Rebodos, owner of Big Shot Piano Lounge and Restaurant, said the open-air setup continues to draw crowds.

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"All the restaurants are out here. We've got seating, I've got live music playing outside," Rebodos said.

Village trustee Tom Schwingbeck introduced the sip-and-stroll idea, which would allow patrons to carry alcoholic beverages within the boundaries of the alfresco zone. He said he was inspired by a similar setup in St. Joseph, Michigan, where he often vacations.

"I've seen how successful this can be for the downtown area there," Schwingbeck said. He added that the concept could help ease long waits at popular restaurants. "Some of our restaurants don't take reservations and it might be a 45-minute wait. You can go in; you can grab a drink and stroll around in our downtown business district."

If approved, the pilot program would begin in August and run through October, operating Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. Rebodos said he supports the proposal.

"I was born in Chicago. We have 3 months' worth of good weather. So, every minute counts. I was all on board when they brought this up," he said.

Not everyone on the board agrees. Trustee Robin LaBedz said she worries about potential litter and underage drinking once alcohol leaves restaurant premises.

"I'm not worried about our restaurants checking IDs, they're great about that, they know what they're doing," LaBedz said. "It's when the alcohol comes back, away from restaurants and is in the public space. What then."

The village board is scheduled to meet at 7:30 p.m. on Monday night to discuss the proposal and whether to amend the liquor code to allow open containers in the alfresco zone.