Boston Planning Board Delays Decision on Patio Hours Amid Community Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
The Boston Planning and Development Board convened to address multiple licensing and development proposals, with substantial focus on community engagement and operational details for new establishments. Significant discussion centered around a contentious request for extending patio hours linked to an alcohol license transfer, highlighting community concerns about inadequate consultation processes.
36:11A key point of deliberation arose from an application associated with a patio hours extension. The board sought clarity on the patio’s advertised closing time, which was initially set at 4 p.m. A local community member, Michael Ricekin, emphasized the necessity for a community process. Ricekin highlighted the importance of vetting new owners due to the establishment’s changing hands multiple times. The applicant’s representative argued that any delay would negatively impact operations and financial plans. This prompted the board to consider approving the license with a hold on its release until after the community meeting, reflecting miscommunication between applicants and city officials about community engagement requirements for license transfers.
30:14Further complications arose during discussions about BU LLC’s application to transfer a common victual or 7-day wines and malt beverages license to Oda Bar and Bites Inc. Board members sought clarification on the patio’s operating hours, which were listed as closing at 4 p.m., conflicting with community expectations. The proposed manager, Doug Shruga, confirmed that while indoor seating hours would remain unchanged, the patio’s hours were intended to align with indoor operations. The board stressed the importance of clear communication and community involvement in the decision-making process.
40:31In another significant agenda item, FP Restaurant Inc. sought to transfer a wine and malt license to Gen Alustin LP for the Gen Korean Barbecue House. The restaurant, planned for a property on Harvard Avenue, would span multiple floors and feature a traditional Korean barbecue setup. Attorney Nick Soula, representing the applicant, highlighted the comprehensive community outreach and positive reception from local associations. The board, acknowledging the extensive community support, took the application under advisement, with no public testimonies needed.
47:52Attention shifted to Democracy 154 Maverick LLC’s application for pouring licenses for a new brewery and winery in East Boston. Founder James Raza described the venture as a cooperative restaurant and brewery with community backing. He emphasized the unanimous support received from local groups, further bolstered by a space grant. Board members expressed enthusiasm for the project, with no questions raised about the manager of record, given Raza’s prior approval for another location.
51:53The board also evaluated an application from 490 Harrison Restaurant LLC for a new restaurant, Capri, at 480 to 490 Harrison Avenue. William Clark, the proposed manager, discussed plans for a full-service restaurant with a large seating capacity and a year-round patio. Despite concerns about rodent issues and noise, Conor Newman from the mayor’s office noted general excitement for the new establishment. The board deferred to the judgment of both the mayor’s office and Councilor Flynn’s support, taking the application under advisement.
01:00:34In contrast, an application from Dynasty Restaurant, Inc., seeking a full alcohol license, faced opposition due to proposed late operating hours. The restaurant, located at 14A Hudson Street, aimed to extend weekend hours until 2 a.m. Despite its longstanding presence since 2012, concerns about potential disturbances from the Chinatown Residents Association were echoed by Conor Newman, with Councilor Flynn’s office opposing the late closing time based on feedback from neighbors. The board decided to take the matter under advisement, with a vote scheduled for the following morning.
Michelle Wu
Planning Board Officials:
Priscilla Rojas, Kate Bennett, Dr. Theodore C. Landsmark, Raheem Shepard
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
05/28/2025
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Recording Published:
05/29/2025
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Duration:
67 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Suffolk County
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Towns:
Boston
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