Cornerstone Grill & Loft, a longtime restaurant and bar in College Park near the University of Maryland, is facing a 90-day liquor license suspension beginning Friday, October 30, along with a $7,500 fine, according to The Diamondback.
The Prince George’s County Board of License Commissioners voted to suspend the establishment’s liquor license after determining that Cornerstone presented a threat to public safety. According to The Diamondback, the decision was based on video evidence and testimony from four University of Maryland police officers. The board previously addressed the charges during meetings on September 9 and October 14.
Cornerstone’s attorney has requested a temporary 90-day pause of the suspension to allow the business time to appeal the charges and file a petition for judicial review. According to The Diamondback, the board is scheduled to consider that request on Tuesday, October 27. The request would delay enforcement of the suspension but would not overturn the board’s underlying decision.
The Diamondback also reported that Cornerstone owner Mark Srour and general manager Brian Lambert addressed the College Park City Council last week, seeking support for reducing the suspension. Lambert, who has served as general manager since 2007, expressed concerns about the potential impact on the restaurant’s approximately 70 employees.
Following the news, Cornerstone released a statement on social media addressing the suspension and the future of the business.
“We want to be clear: Cornerstone is not permanently closing, and we are actively pursuing all available legal options to challenge this decision,” the restaurant stated.
Cornerstone said it disagrees with aspects of the proceedings and the resulting decision but intends to address those concerns through the legal process. The restaurant also acknowledged uncertainty surrounding upcoming events, private reservations, and scheduled entertainment, including an upcoming performance by DJ Pauly D.
Customers who have purchased tickets or booked private events are encouraged to retain their confirmations and monitor the restaurant’s official social media accounts for updates regarding potential cancellations, rescheduling, or refunds.
The restaurant also emphasized its commitment to employees and thanked the College Park community for its support throughout the situation.
Cornerstone has operated under its current name since 1997, when brothers Greg and Mark Srour transformed the former Rendezvous Inn, commonly known as The ‘Vous, into Cornerstone Grill & Loft. The original establishment was opened in 1962 by their father, Sam Srour, and a business partner.
