Planning Commission Reviews Conditional Use Permit for Beer and Wine at Zhang Liang Malatang

The National City Planning Commission convened on August 18, 2025, to discuss a conditional use permit (CUP) for the sale of beer and wine at a new restaurant, Zhang Liang Malatang Spicy Hot Pot, located at 1430 East Plaza Boulevard, Suite E20. The meeting began with a public hearing, during which Commissioner Quinones disclosed a visit to the site.

Assistant Planner Sophia Depew presented the details of the proposed restaurant, which occupies a 2,500 square foot space in the Bay Plaza Shopping Center. The establishment is situated in a major mixed-use district, surrounded primarily by commercial properties, with some residential areas located to the east, separated by a significant grade change.

The restaurant plans to offer alcohol sales from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, with a seating capacity of approximately 72. Depew noted that the National City Municipal Code permits alcohol sales for on-site consumption with an approved CUP. The city sent out 520 notices to nearby property owners and occupants, and a community meeting was held on July 14, which saw no attendees.

Depew highlighted that the census tract where the restaurant is located currently has 18 on-sale licenses, exceeding the recommended limit of 10, indicating an over-concentration of alcohol licenses in the area. However, the restaurant's design, with over 30% of its floor area dedicated to seating, allows it to bypass certain distance requirements for alcohol CUPs.

The police department conducted a risk assessment, categorizing the business in the lowest risk category based on various factors. Additionally, the Institute for Public Strategies recommended responsible beverage training for staff and signage to ensure that open containers remain inside the restaurant.

The staff recommended approval of the CUP, asserting that the proposed use aligns with the general plan and is consistent with city council policy regarding alcohol sales. The commission was presented with options to either approve the project, deny it, or continue the discussion for further information.

The meeting concluded with the planning commission poised to make a decision on the conditional use permit, which, if approved, would proceed to the city council for final consideration.