State Seizes Duffy’s Ale House for Not Paying Taxes

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance seized Duffy’s Ale House, a popular Lindenhurst restaurant, on Wednesday afternoon for non-payment of taxes, closing the eatery down to the public.

By late afternoon, bright orange signs that read “SEIZED” in bright orange along with two other documents from the Department of Taxation, hung on the doors.

“This property has been seized for nonpayment of taxes, and is now in the possession of the State of New York,” one sign read.

There were no immediate details on what the business owed in taxes.

Duffy’s, located at 95 East Hoffman Avenue, is a local staple in Lindenhurst, known for its assortment of chicken wings and beers.

While owner Gene Arnold would not give any details about the situation to Patch when met at the restaurant Wednesday afternoon, Arnold later emailed to say the business could reopen soon, even as early as Thursday afternoon.

According to signs posted on the restaurant, the state could sell off property to repay the penalties, interest and costs associated with the warrant and taxes owed.

A call to the state’s Department of Taxation was not immediately returned.

Lindenhurst residents were shocked by the news, noting the help the restaurant gave to those affected to Hurricane Sandy in the wake of the storm.

"They've helped so many after the storm," noted Michelle Gill Foti on our Facebook page.

"Maybe Duffy's needs OUR help now," agreed Kathy Chernick Yodice.

"Duffy's has been more than generous to Lindenhurst," wrote AnneJeannine Chimenti Cuozzo. "I will continue to support the restaurant, staff and owner."