The Spot bar is open, denies selling bootlegged beer

The Spot bar in Salt Lake City is open, despite news reports it had closed after allegations that the club sold bootlegged beer.

Owner AJ Galway said he's hoping customers will return to the club, located at 870 S. Main St., and that the accusations can be resolved.

In May, liquor cops confiscated six bottles of beer while Galway was out of town. Investigators said they will not file charges until they have a chance to discuss the issue with the owner.

"I'm happy to cooperate," Galway said. "I didn't sell bootlegged beer. I want to have this matter resolved."

Last week, telephone calls to the bar went unanswered and its mailbox was full. A woman listed on the search warrant did not return calls. A reporter also visited the bar after 4 p.m. when it was slated to open, but no one was on site, according to a Salt Lake Tribune story on July 26.

"I'm not always here right at 4 p.m.," said Galway. "We're a small neighborhood bar — I also have a day job."

Bar hours typically are 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily.

The covert operation was conducted to determine whether The Spot had sold "unauthorized" beer, from a list provided by a rival bar owner, according to a court affidavit.

All bars and eateries are required to purchase alcoholic beverages from state liquor stores or licensed individuals such as beer wholesalers, at the same price that consumers pay.

Violations for selling unauthorized beer are considered "grave" and subject to possible license suspension or revocation and fines from $1,000 to $25,000.

dawn@sltrib.com

Twitter: @DawnHouseTrib —

The Spot bar

Where • 870 S. Main St., Salt Lake City

Hours • 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Sunday

What • Casual, low-key neighborhood bar serving drinks and food