Not all organized crime schemes involved gambling, extortion, or high-level rackets.
According to federal court records and contemporary newspaper reporting, Anthony Maggio of Maggio’s Lounge at 7635 West Roosevelt Road in Forest Park was convicted in 1965 for liquor tax violations after authorities discovered empty whiskey bottles were allegedly being refilled with cheaper spirits and resold as premium brands.
Even after that conviction—and separate gambling-related legal trouble—Maggio’s Lounge remained associated with Chicago Outfit figures, including Sam Giancana, according to the 1966 Chicago Crime Commission Report.
Apparently, some “top shelf” offerings were more aspirational than authentic.
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