In a pivotal meeting held on September 3, 2025, the Santa Barbara Staff Hearing Officer reviewed plans for new parklets at 1812 and 1814 Cliff Drive, a project aimed at enhancing the coastal dining experience while adhering to city regulations. The proposed parklets, designed for Alcazar Tapas Bar, Ichiban Sushi, and Rose Cafe, will replace existing temporary structures that were initially permitted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Carly Ernest, an associate planner, presented the project, detailing the dimensions and seating capacities of the new parklets: Alcazar's will span 91 square feet with 12 seats, Ichiban's will cover 142 square feet with 12 seats, and Rose Cafe's will be the largest at 186 square feet with 24 seats. The new designs will feature uniform steel planters as traffic barriers and comply with the city's stormwater management program, ensuring environmental considerations are met.

The meeting underscored the importance of the coastal development permit required for these parklets, as they fall within the non-appealable jurisdiction of the coastal zone. This permit is essential for aligning the project with the California Coastal Act and the city's local coastal plan, which emphasizes public access and visual quality.

Ernest highlighted that the parklet program was initially authorized to support restaurants during the pandemic, with regulations evolving into a structured process that began on January 1, 2024. The new ordinance established a clear pathway for parklet applications, requiring preliminary reviews by various city departments before final approvals.

As the meeting concluded, staff recommended approval of the coastal development permit, citing the project’s alignment with coastal policies and its potential to enhance the area's aesthetic appeal. The decision marks a significant step in revitalizing the dining landscape along Cliff Drive, promising to create inviting outdoor spaces for residents and visitors alike.