Buffalo Police Bust Speakeasy: 'Occasions' Under Scrutiny After Secret Party

BUFFALO, N.Y. — A North Buffalo business that found itself in hot water over the weekend for allegedly moonlighting as a speakeasy is no longer under a "cease all operations" order from Buffalo Police.

"They are certainly aware that if there are any other violations, we will come at them again and look at possibly pulling even their regular business permit," warned Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, speaking about "Occasions," a party planning business at 1783 Hertel Ave., near Starin Ave.

The intrigue began early Saturday morning when police arrived to find a sizable crowd gathered outside the business. Their investigation was met with resistance from the owners, raising eyebrows and suspicions.

Speakeasies, by their very nature, are shrouded in secrecy, and Buffalo is no exception. "There's some we just don't know about," admitted Gramaglia, highlighting the clandestine operations that keep law enforcement on their toes.

"Occasions" was reportedly hosting a private party where drinks were flowing freely, but not legally. "This is supposed to be a business, not a place to serve booze. It's not like your house where you can serve drinks to guests," Gramaglia pointed out.

Further digging revealed a slew of violations: operating without a license, employing an unregistered bouncer, and allowing patrons to both possess and consume alcohol on the premises.

"We really do try and do a lot of work to stay ahead of these things (speakeasies) and try to identify them... unfortunately, some we're going to find out about when something bad happens," Gramaglia noted.

Indeed, the recent history of Buffalo's speakeasies is checkered with incidents, including a shooting at a speakeasy on East Lovejoy just three months ago.

These secretive establishments are adept at hiding in plain sight. "They do a pretty good job of concealing themselves," Gramaglia said. "We look for cars where they aren't supposed to be, and we look for people coming in and out of a place that we know does not have a permit to be open as an establishment."

For now, the front entrance of "Occasions" remains locked, its interior seemingly vacant. The city’s cease operations order is gone, but a faded sign detailing COVID-19 protocols is a ghostly reminder of less complicated times.

"Occasions," located at 1783 Hertel Avenue, was found to be operating without a license, according to city officials.Photo bywkbw