33:50Maple and Ash, a fine dining establishment originating from Chicago, aims to occupy a space within a residential complex housing 447 family units. During the meeting, significant testimony was provided by residents and community representatives who voiced concerns about the potential noise and disruption associated with the restaurant’s late closing hours. A representative from the Seaport Neighborhood Association underscored the importance of aligning the restaurant’s hours with those of existing local fine dining venues, which typically close between 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. They emphasized that reasonable closing times are crucial in maintaining the quality of life for nearby residents.

36:59Frank Licolo, vice president of the homeowners association within the Echelon complex where the restaurant is to be located, demanded assurances about the restaurant’s terrace, which has proposed staying open until 11:00 p.m. Licolo argued that such an arrangement could disturb residents in adjacent units. He pointed out that noise and odors from the restaurant, as well as the shared courtyard entrance, posed potential issues for residents. Licolo called for collaborative efforts between the restaurant operators and the community to proactively address these concerns.

41:06Carl Fischer, another resident, raised questions about the restaurant’s glass-enclosed terrace, which would require condominium association approval. Fischer noted existing noise regulations, suggesting the terrace’s operation might exceed allowable decibel levels, thereby violating community agreements. He expressed skepticism about the restaurant’s ability to manage these issues effectively, referencing previous challenges with other local establishments.

35:10Other residents, including Sun Albach, pointed out discrepancies between the proposed terrace hours and the condominium’s documents, which mandate a 10:00 p.m. closure for the courtyard. Albach questioned the practicality of the restaurant’s proposed seating and closing arrangements, arguing they would extend operations closer to midnight, contrary to the practices of surrounding businesses.

A resident named Moren openly opposed the establishment’s proposed late closing time, expressing distrust of the representatives’ assurances. Moren voiced concerns that the fine dining label was inconsistent with plans for potential events or parties that could generate disturbances. This sentiment was echoed by other residents who feared negative impacts on their quality of life.

28:37In response to the community’s feedback, a representative from Maple and Ash assured the board and residents that the restaurant intended to be a cooperative and considerate neighbor. They emphasized the restaurant’s primary focus on dining rather than nightlife, and highlighted that nearby establishments with similar licenses often close earlier than their permitted hours. The representative pledged to adhere to community and regulatory standards to mitigate concerns.

06:45The board took note of the extensive testimonies and community concerns.

01:13:17Shifting focus to other matters, the meeting also addressed the licensing application for Mr. Drinky LLC, a proposed craft cocktail bar in Jamaica Plain. Alan Wong, the representative for Mr. Drinky LLC, outlined plans for a small, intimate venue offering high-quality cocktails and small plates. Wong emphasized his family’s longstanding history in the area and his desire to create a unique space for local residents. Despite receiving letters of opposition regarding potential parking and noise issues, Wong’s proposal received support from the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Council and other local residents.

50:33Additionally, the board considered the application of Third Cliff Bakery, which sought to expand its service to include alcohol. The bakery’s owner presented a plan to enhance safety through name and ID checks and confirmed that alcohol would not be served on the patio to address noise concerns. Community feedback was mixed, with some residents supporting the bakery’s proposal as a welcome addition to the neighborhood.

58:20The meeting concluded with a discussion on the application from Wash L Beverages LLC for an all-alcohol beverage license at a new mixed-use development on Washington Street. The proposal included plans for multiple small, independent restaurant operators under one license. However, concerns were raised regarding the lack of specific operator details and inadequate community engagement, leading to a request from the Arlington Court Condominium Association for a deferral until further discussions could be held.