Lucky Soho seeks sidewalk cafe permit amid public safety concerns at Lafayette Street

The Manhattan Community Board 2's Outdoor Dining Working Group convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding outdoor dining applications, particularly focusing on Little Lucky's LLC, located at 224 Lafayette Street. The meeting highlighted community concerns regarding the establishment's sidewalk café proposal, emphasizing the need for clear pathways and compliance with city regulations.

A key point of discussion arose when a local resident, Pete Davies, raised concerns about the site plan submitted by Little Lucky's. He noted that the plan did not adequately show the residential entrances adjacent to the café, which could impede access for residents. Davies emphasized the importance of maintaining a five-foot clearance around these entrances to ensure safety and accessibility. He also questioned the absence of a perimeter barrier for the proposed tables and chairs, which is crucial for delineating the café space from pedestrian walkways.

Amanda, the general manager of Little Lucky's, responded to these concerns, acknowledging the oversight in the site plan and committing to rectify it. She explained that outdoor dining is vital for the café's viability, given its limited indoor seating capacity. Amanda assured the group that she had purchased compliant sidewalk barriers and would provide the necessary documentation to confirm their specifications.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of outdoor dining regulations, particularly in light of recent changes to city guidelines. The group discussed the importance of balancing business needs with community safety, especially regarding the placement of tables in relation to building entrances and public pathways. The consensus among board members was to prioritize maintaining clear access routes while supporting local businesses.

As the meeting concluded, the board agreed to continue discussions on the sidewalk café application, emphasizing the need for clarity and compliance with city regulations. The outcomes of this meeting reflect ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of outdoor dining in Manhattan, ensuring that both business interests and community needs are addressed effectively.