For guests, dining outside on a New York City street is a wonderful opportunity to relax and enjoy a meal or a glass of wine, to sit and watch the perpetual motion of people going about their lives.  For restaurants, sidewalk cafes provide additional covers, more seating options for guests, and increased visibility.

However, not all restaurants are eligible to operate a sidewalk cafe.  Zoning laws dictate where sidewalk seating is permitted as well as what kind(s) of cafe you may operate - unenclosed, small unenclosed, and enclosed.  In addition, the sidewalk must be big enough to accommodate the additional seating - there must be at least 12 feet between your property line and the curb.

If your location is eligible for a sidewalk cafe, the application process is time-consuming and complex.  Between the Department of Consumer Affairs, your neighbors and local Community Board, and other City agencies, many different parties will have a voice in whether or not your application will be approved.  All in all, it can take up to six months to get your license!

For restaurant owners interested in expanding service to the sidewalk, get an early start and contact me now to talk about your eligibility, the application process and requirements for operation.