I've been to restaurant's that have opened without a liquor or beer and wine license, one or two had a bring your own policy. It worked out well enough, but if you weren't familiar with the place you'd certainly be a bit disappointed when you were offered pop, iced tea and tap water!

We don't drink at home, and rarely buy beer, wine or especially hard liquor, it is more enjoyable to have these when going out to eat.

I guess it is tough to get a license, and it probably costs much, as well as taking out a liability policy.