Fisky’s Cafe, a family-run Indian restaurant on Harbor Point Boulevard, presented a case for extending its operating hours, citing a community survey showing strong support for late-night food options. Dashup Patel, representing the café, emphasized the lack of such offerings in the area, with 89% of survey respondents identifying this gap, and 99.5% advocating for the extended hours. The café, which opened three months ago, does not serve alcohol or tobacco products and benefits from a secure environment with a 24/7 police presence.

Despite the restaurant’s short tenure, the board questioned the necessity of the extended hours. Patel assured the board of sufficient staffing levels, with family members ready to assist.

Residents spoke about the café’s importance, particularly for those with late work hours. Nikon Doshi, a student and intern, described the café as a part of his routine, while others highlighted the café’s critical role in providing healthy food alternatives. A software engineer living nearby echoed the benefits for those on-call, and Sarit Singh, working night shifts, appreciated the café’s takeout options.

While the board noted the absence of a formal civic association in the area, it acknowledged the community’s backing. In the absence of any formal objections, the board took the matter under advisement, recognizing the café’s potential to enhance local nightlife and dining options.

Another notable item was the change of name for Nightlight Café to 89 Charles on Charles Street. The establishment, maintaining its original tapas, raw bar, and cocktail concept, plans to open in September. The board heard from attorney Elizabeth Pisano, who emphasized continuity despite the name change, and consideration of the community’s preferences.

The board also reviewed management changes at Double Tree Guest Suites and the annual procedural update for the Chilton Club. Both matters were routine, with no significant objections or concerns raised.

In the retail sector, the application by Bonsole Market LLC for a package store license on Blue Hill Avenue in Roxbury drew mixed reactions. While some residents supported the Caribbean convenience store’s bid to sell wines and malt beverages, concerns were raised about the potential for increased alcohol-related issues in the area. Despite receiving 55 letters of support, the board sought a detailed floor plan and stressed the need for staff training in ID verification to ensure compliance with regulations.

The board’s agenda also included Aqua Vivas Market’s application for a retail package store license in Mattapan. The proposal faced significant opposition due to concerns about the store’s proximity to schools and potential youth access to alcohol. Community members and local officials voiced their apprehensions, citing existing issues with litter and safety. Angel Vivas Lara, managing the store, assured the board of adherence to regulations but acknowledged product overlaps with a nearby store. The board took this matter under advisement.

Finally, the board considered applications for new alcoholic beverage licenses from Sally’s Pizza, Nanchang Express, and Bay, each seeking to expand their offerings in response to local demand. These applications, generally well-received, emphasized community engagement and support, aligning with the board’s focus on fostering a vibrant dining scene.