Squeeky’s Cafe owners obtain Liqour License for Washington Tavern Renovation, become first black businesses to obtain liquor license in Somerset County

PRINCESS ANNE, Md- Thursday marked a historic day for progress and new business growth in Princess Anne, with the Owners of Squeaky’s Cafe securing a liquor license, as they renovate and take over the Washington Tavern; becoming the first black recipients of a liquor license in the counties history.

Downtown Princess Anne Development Director Carrie Sammis tells us the Washington Tavern had at one time been a segregated restaurant and is thrilled to see other black-owned businesses come to the downtown area.

For Chef Ed Wilkes and his wife and Co-Owner Orlena Wilkes, they say the liquor license was one of the final hurdles between them and a successful opening of the restaurant space that had been closed by its previous owners.

“We a have a great responsibility on our shoulders to be able to deliver a great product and be able to build great clientele and we are just so humbled to be the first in this area to have that liquor license,” Wilkes said adding that he is excited to begin developing a unique cocktail menu for the venue in addition to exclusive dishes for the venture.

With the votes secured and the liquor license in hand, the Wilkes’ say the restaurant is set for a March 3rd opening day.

According to Orlena Wilkes, “We are already receiving reservations.”