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Planning commission approves merged Links Bar & Grill/Akiva with noise and outdoor‑seating limits
Summary
The commission unanimously approved a conditional use authorization to merge Links Bar & Grill and Akiva (3129–3141 Clement Street), extending hours to 2 a.m. but adding conditions that outdoor seating end at 8 p.m., the outdoor area close by 10 p.m., remove patio televisions, and require the karaoke sound be fully contained.
The Planning Commission on May 27 approved a consolidated operation combining Links Bar & Grill (3129 Clement) and Akiva (3141 Clement) into a single hospitality business and entertainment venue, while adding specific conditions to address neighbors’ noise concerns. The vote was unanimous, 7‑0.
Planning staff described the proposal as a merger of two adjacent storefronts into approximately 5,303 square feet of floor area with proposed hours of operation of 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily and outdoor dining to 10 p.m. The sponsor said the combined use helps the business survive the pandemic and that prior complaints arose under the previous owner. Shuay Lu, who operates Akiva and Links, told the commission she has cut back on hard liquor and committed to retrofit sound attenuation and other operational changes.
Nearby residents urged stronger restrictions. Todd Boone, who shares a backyard wall with the business, described recurring late‑night karaoke noise in pre‑pandemic years and asked that the commission ensure a binding remedy if soundproofing is not implemented. Planning staff pointed to existing conditions from prior authorizations requiring adequate soundproofing when uses are enclosed and explained that enforcement and plan‑check review occur through the Building Department and code enforcement if needed.
Commissioners framed the vote as a balance between protecting small businesses and ensuring neighborhood livability. Commissioner Diamond proposed three explicit additions: require last outdoor seating at 8 p.m. (with the outdoor area cleared by 10 p.m.), remove televisions from the outdoor patio, and require the karaoke sound to be fully contained within the establishment so that no noise bleeds outside. The sponsor accepted the seating and closing times and said he would pursue sound attenuation measures in construction.
The commission approved the conditional use with the amended conditions. Staff noted that the Building Department will verify the sound‑attenuation measures during plan check, and neighbors can seek enforcement via code enforcement if conditions are not met.
