San Gabriel's Planning Commission has taken a significant step towards enhancing the local dining scene by approving a conditional use permit amendment for Sonangdang, a Korean restaurant located at 927 East Las Tunas Drive. The amendment allows the restaurant to extend its operating hours to between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., a move aimed at catering to residents and visitors with non-standard work schedules.

The restaurant, which has been in operation since 2016, previously faced restrictions limiting its hours to 9 p.m. The amendment not only permits extended hours but also aligns with California state regulations, allowing for beer and wine service until 2 a.m. This change is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a restaurant in San Gabriel will have a dining room open during these late-night hours, filling a gap in the local market.

The Planning Commission's decision was supported by a review from the San Gabriel Police Department, which found no history of service calls related to the restaurant. The police recommended improvements to exterior lighting for safety, which the restaurant has agreed to maintain.

This initiative supports the city’s economic development goals by providing a unique dining option that is currently unavailable in the area. The restaurant's management emphasized that operating 24 hours is crucial for their business model, particularly as they specialize in soups and stews that appeal to late-night diners.

The amendment was publicly noticed, and the commission ensured that local residents were informed about the changes. With this approval, Sonangdang is set to become a key player in San Gabriel's late-night dining landscape, offering a new option for those seeking meals outside traditional hours.