Local restaurant's sidewalk cafe causes congestion at busy Greenwich Avenue corner

The Manhattan Community Board 2's SLA Committee Meeting on June 5, 2025, highlighted ongoing concerns regarding sidewalk café operations in the area. A key discussion point centered around a specific café that has been observed expanding its seating arrangements beyond permitted areas, causing congestion on busy sidewalks.

During the meeting, a local resident reported witnessing the café staff setting up tables and chairs in front of a flower shop, which obstructed pedestrian traffic. The resident noted that the café already has a significant number of seats—60 in their sidewalk café and 18 in their roadbed—but still encroaches on adjacent storefronts. This practice has raised concerns about safety and accessibility, particularly during busy times, such as Memorial Day weekend.

The resident expressed frustration over the café's disregard for established rules governing outdoor dining, emphasizing that the café has operated under a license for ten years and should adhere to the same regulations that were in place before the pandemic. The resident also pointed out that servers frequently navigate the sidewalk to serve patrons, further complicating pedestrian movement.

The discussion underscored a broader issue of compliance with zoning regulations, which were initially modified to allow outdoor cafés in the area. The resident, who lives nearby, expressed disappointment in the café's behavior, describing it as a betrayal of the community's trust. They noted that the area had previously suffered from neglect and blight due to improper outdoor setups.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to address these concerns, as community members seek to ensure that local businesses operate responsibly while maintaining public safety and accessibility. The ongoing dialogue reflects the community's desire for a balanced approach to outdoor dining that respects both business interests and pedestrian needs.