Edge loses liquor license Edge loses liquor license (May 28, 2004)

Popular night club failed to pay its taxes, according to Board of Equalization

by Bill D'Agostino

The Edge, a popular California Avenue nightclub, had its liquor license indefinitely suspended last week for allegedly failing to pay taxes.

The suspension will be lifted once the nightclub pays its back taxes, according to Justin Gebb, a supervising investigator with the California Department of Alcohol Beverage Control.

Numerous calls and e-mails to various Edge representatives were not returned by the Weekly's deadline, and the restaurant portion of the club was uncharacteristically closed for dinner on Wednesday evening.

The California Board of Equalization made the request for the license suspension on May 11, and it was officially taken away on Friday, May 21, Gebb said.

A sign hung in the front window this week announcing the suspension. But another advertisement in a side window continued to defiantly announce that Budweiser was sold for $2 during happy hour, starting at 5 p.m.

It's not the first time the Edge has faced scrutiny. In 1998, the nightclub nearly lost its city permit following neighbors' complaints, Palo Alto planning official Steven Turner recalled. Last summer, a fight broke out in the parking lot prompting police to call in more than 50 officers and a helicopter. And in March, police from numerous departments squashed a near-riot at 3 a.m. when more than 600 people gathered outside the club.

The club is a popular destination for young adults around the Bay Area, and the entrance line frequently extends far outside the club, even on weeknights. Live music, belly-dance contests, a sushi bar and a cigar lounge are among the attractions.

Staff writer Bill D'Agostino can be e-mailed at bdagostino@paweekly.com

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