At the top of the agenda, Virtual Fulfillment Center LLC, operating as Virtual Food Court (VFC), applied for a common victualler (CV) license for the location on Old Colony Avenue in South Boston. The site, previously known as Supreme House of Pizza, had been vacant for nearly two years. The proposed establishment aims to operate as a takeout restaurant with a capacity of 3,500 square feet, featuring a full open kitchen, office space, and storage areas. The planned hours of operation are from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week.

Danny Abir, one of the owners and proposed manager, emphasized his 20 years of experience managing successful restaurants in Cambridge. He outlined a diverse Mediterranean menu alongside traditional offerings like pizza and burgers. The application included a proposal to amend the license to incorporate 14 seats for dining, with potential future expansion. However, the board noted the necessity of community outreach and coordination with the zoning board of appeals regarding the removal of a previous takeout proviso.

A public hearing was held despite the location’s prior licensing, due to notable community interest. Conor Newman from the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services expressed support for the board’s discretion and noted that community concerns were primarily about delivery operations rather than dine-in services. Fifty letters of support were received, highlighting excitement for healthier food options. However, the Andrew Square Civic Association raised concerns about pedestrian safety, particularly around a nearby dangerous intersection.

Laura Tadeo from Councilor Flynn’s office and Linda Zaki from the Andrew Square Civic Association both opposed the application, citing ongoing community discussions and pedestrian safety concerns linked to delivery services. Patty McCormack, vice president of the Andrew Square Civic Association, stressed the importance of completing safety measures before the establishment’s opening, even for dine-in service. Maria Bermudez, a local homeowner, echoed these concerns. The board decided to take the matter under advisement, emphasizing that any future takeout plans would require further review.

Another item was Raising Cane’s request to extend its operating hours from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. The restaurant, located on Boon Street, has operated successfully for over three years without incident. The proposed extension aims to offer a late-night food option, contributing to the area’s vibrancy. Conor Newman reported no initial concerns from the community, though the applicant was in ongoing discussions with their landlord about security arrangements for the extended hours. Adam Karachi from Raising Cane’s clarified that while their original landlord provided 24-hour security, the new landlord only offers security until 6:30 p.m. The applicant proposed covering part of the security costs.

Further discussions included management transitions for Baco Fenway LLC and Baco Fort Point LLC, both seeking to appoint Anthony Figaroa as the new manager. Figaroa, represented by Attorney Dennis Quilty, confirmed his extensive experience in the food and beverage industry and plans to split his time between the two locations. The board appeared satisfied with his qualifications and raised no questions following his testimony.

The board also reviewed an application from Rhubarb Inc. to transfer the license from O’Brien’s to Altin Live Concessions LLC. Attorney Andrew Upton assured continuity in management and operations, with Timothy Philbin continuing as the manager. The application received support from local residents.

Lahara Restaurant Corporation sought a common victualler’s license at Factory Restaurant in Dorchester. Attorney Nick Zazula highlighted the restaurant’s strong community reputation and the experience of proposed manager Yimi Lahara. The application aimed to expand the restaurant’s offerings with a future beer and wine license. The board took this matter under advisement for further review.

Lastly, the board discussed liquor license applications from Unique International Restaurant and Flagship Restaurant Group LLC. Unique International Restaurant’s representative presented a strong case for adding a liquor license, supported by over 50 local signatures and endorsements from civic associations. The board inquired about the restaurant’s operational aspects and community support, which were positively received.

Flagship Restaurant Group LLC, represented by Attorney Dennis Quilty, sought a common victualer license for a new establishment on North Square. The proposal included detailed community outreach efforts and unanimous support from the neighborhood council. The board emphasized the importance of fair license allocations and discussed the potential return of the restaurant’s current beer and wine license. Public support from local officials underscored the positive community impact of the proposed establishments.