Permittees may serve only one mixed beverage (and no other drink) at a time to a patron. Permittees may not serve more than two drinks to a single patron at one time, as long as neither of the drinks is a mixed beverage. Pitchers of alcoholic beverages may be served to two or more patrons. A single carafe or bottle of wine may be sold to a single person.
If sales are occurring on property under control of a public college or university, permittees may serve only one drink per person at one time, regardless of the type of drink being served.
Happy hours are not allowed in North Carolina. Drink specials are allowed but must be offered to all customers for the entire day and in all areas of the business. Certain drink specials are not allowed, such as a “two for one” or a “buy one, get one” special. “Buy one, get one for a nickel” (or another non-full price amount) is also prohibited. Although ABC takes the position that a “buy a meal (or anything), get a free drink” special is prohibited, NC law allows an on-premises permittee to include alcoholic beverages in a package offering that includes a meal or entertainment. If offering such a package, however, the total price must reflect the actual price of the alcoholic beverages and not a reduced price.
