TABC Caterer License (Liquor-by-the-Drink): Nashville restaurant guide
Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission
What it is
The state license to serve liquor, wine and high-gravity beer at off-premises catered events. You must have a permanent commercial kitchen and be licensed as a caterer by the health department (or hold a restaurant permit), and you must notify TABC before each event.
When a restaurant needs it
Before catering any event where you serve alcohol off your licensed premises.
How to apply
Apply in RLPS with the same ownership and premises documents as a restaurant license. File a Notice of Catered Event with TABC at least two full business days before each event during state working hours.
Documents you’ll need
- Lease/deed for the kitchen premises
- Health department caterer or restaurant permit
- Owner information and IDs
- TTB registration, sales tax certificate and business licenses
Good to know
Alcohol may arrive at the event site no earlier than 8:00 a.m. and must be removed by noon the following day. Catered beer needs the separate Metro caterer beer permit.
Official source
TABC — Caterer license · TABC — Fee schedule
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.