The meeting’s primary focus was on an application from Parson CC Selfie Opco LLC, trading as Common Craft, located on Damrell Street. This establishment proposed to introduce live entertainment, including disc jockeys and instrumental vocal music, with performances inside and on the outdoor patio. The plan is for these events to occur seven days a week until 11:00 p.m., with the restaurant itself closing at 1:00 a.m. on weekends. The applicants emphasized that the entertainment would enhance the dining experience without overshadowing it, incorporating small bands and possibly DJs for background ambiance.

Concerns were raised by board members about potential noise issues in the South Boston area, particularly given the restaurant’s proximity to residential areas. The applicants addressed these by detailing sound mitigation strategies, such as using an audio firm to assess sound levels, constructing a second ceiling grid, and employing foam insulation to minimize sound penetration. They also proposed monitoring sound levels with an app or monitoring equipment and establishing a 24-hour contact number for noise complaints. Despite these assurances, the board requested a security and emergency operation plan to be submitted upon the restaurant’s opening.

Support for Common Craft’s proposal came from the Andrew Square Civic Association, which had no concerns regarding the entertainment component. Representatives from the mayor’s office and Councilor Flynn’s office also expressed support, contingent on the applicants re-engaging with the community if entertainment plans extend beyond 11:00 p.m.

Another application was from SGHC LLC, known as Bombola, on Northern Avenue. This proposal sought to add live entertainment, including DJs, trivia, and instrumental and vocal music, with operations running seven days a week until 2:00 a.m. The concept aimed to evoke an Italian villa atmosphere, with entertainment complementing rather than dominating the dining experience. The applicants argued that their offerings would fill a gap in the Seaport area’s live music scene.

While the mayor’s office and Councilor Flynn’s office supported Bombola’s proposal, they insisted on continued community engagement, particularly if entertainment hours extend.

The board also evaluated an application from another venue aiming to introduce trivia nights. The representatives stressed the importance of sound management and community interaction, noting the installation of smaller speakers and sound-deadening measures to maintain an intimate atmosphere. However, representatives from the Seaport Neighborhood Association raised concerns over the lack of communication regarding aspects like trivia and vocal music. They requested that decisions be deferred until further dialogue with the neighborhood association, aligning with sentiments from Councilor Flynn’s office.

Despite these concerns, some community members expressed support, citing the applicants’ responsiveness to previous issues and their commitment to community engagement. Costas Tingis, Chief Engineer at Park Lane, and Normand from the Seaport Neighborhood Association voiced their support after thorough discussions with the board.

The final application discussed was from Tall Ship Restaurant LLC, which sought to amend its entertainment license to include a variety of new activities, such as audio devices, TVs, board games, and an ice skating rink. The proposal aimed to create a family-friendly winter village experience, expanding into 120,000 square feet of outdoor space. The representative confirmed the venue’s capacity at 3,000, with 1,250 seats available, and emphasized a commitment to ongoing community collaboration to mitigate noise issues.

The Office of Neighborhood Services confirmed that the Tall Ship’s community processes were complete, with no opposition from the Jeffre Point Neighborhood Association. The board took all applications under advisement.