Umi’s Steakhouse set to open or have liquor license revoked

First they closed, then they opened again, then they closed again, now they will open again? According to the Selectmen, they better or they will begin the process of revoking the license.

Umi’s had re-opened their G.A.R. Highway location after a closure of about a week late last year. Owner Wing Tai came in front of the Board of Selectmen in Swansea to have the establishment’s liquor and entertainment licenses renewed in December. Umi’s re-opened to keep their licenses, but the opening did not last long. The restaurant closed again on December 31st.

The owners came in front of the Board of Selectmen in January after concern from the Selectmen over the issue of granting a liquor license and then seeing the restaurant quickly close.

Joanne and Wing Tai stated they were renovating with an eventual March 1st re-opening. The establishment, however, is still not open.

Joanne Tai went in front of the Swansea Selectmen tonight, while being represented by lawyer Peter Saulino, stating she needs a bit more time to get the restaurant inspected. They removed the hood and have turned the eatery into a regular closed kitchen including an updated menu with an all you can eat option. Tai and the Board agreed that if the business is not open by March 21st, the liquor license revocation process will begin. Tai stated that the name of the restaurant will stay the same.

The Board, who were understandably frustrated, expressed that town residents have given them a lot of flack for constant changing of plans by the owners. The Selectmen agreed that they will all be meeting for lunch at 12:00 p.m. on March 21st to assure the establishment is open. The board also agreed that the liquor license would not be transferred to a buyer if plans changed and the Tai family sold the building.