Conditional approval granted for Kihee Cha's café at 42 University Place

On June 25, 2025, the Manhattan Community Board 2 convened an Outdoor Dining Working Group meeting to discuss various applications for outdoor dining permits, focusing on compliance with city regulations and community safety. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the layout and safety of proposed outdoor dining spaces, particularly in relation to residential entrances and emergency access.

One of the primary discussions centered around a proposed outdoor dining setup next to a business known as Lovely Day. Board members expressed concerns about the lack of designated parking and the potential obstruction of emergency lanes. The current plan indicated that the emergency lane, which is supposed to be 15 feet wide, was compromised by the use of a fire hydrant as part of the emergency access. The board emphasized the need for clearer labeling of residential entrances and the proper allocation of space to ensure that dining setups do not encroach on these areas.

The group also reviewed a new application from Kihee Cha at 42 University Place for a roadway cafe. Although there were no significant obstructions noted in previous applications for this location, the absence of a manhole on the submitted diagram raised concerns. Board members insisted that the manhole be included in the site plan to ensure compliance with safety regulations. They discussed the need for the cafe's dimensions to be adjusted to maintain a safe distance from barriers and tables, ultimately agreeing on a conditional approval pending these modifications.

Another application from Kiko NYC at 307 Street Street was also on the agenda, but specific issues regarding this proposal were not detailed in the transcript. The board's approach to these applications reflects a broader commitment to balancing the interests of local businesses with the safety and accessibility needs of the community.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts of Manhattan CB2 to regulate outdoor dining spaces effectively. By addressing safety concerns and ensuring compliance with city regulations, the board aims to foster a vibrant dining culture while protecting the interests of residents and emergency services. The next steps will involve further review of the applications and continued dialogue with business owners to refine their proposals.