Commission approves Locals Corner restaurant at 2500 Bryant after neighborhood mediation

The Commission voted unanimously on Feb. 16 to approve a conditional use authorization to convert a retail/food store at 2500 Bryant St. into a full-service restaurant called Locals Corner.

Britney Bendix (planning staff) said the proposal met Planning Code standards for the RM1 district and that the sponsor had participated in mediation facilitated by Supervisor Campos' office. Neighbors had sought limits on outdoor seating (reduced from 16 to 12 seats and restricted hours), but the project sponsor, Yaron Milgram, said outdoor seating starting at 8:00 a.m. was integral for a breakfast service and that he had tried to work with neighbors.

Multiple neighbors and community members both supported and opposed aspects of the project; supporters said the restaurant would activate the street and improve safety and retail options. Joel Spivak, a neighbor, said the new business would provide a better alternative to the prior liquor-store use and help revitalize the block. After public comment and staff recommendation, the Commission voted to approve the project with standard conditions; the Commission also encouraged continued outreach and coordination with DPW on specific outdoor seating configurations and hours.

"This is a site that originally had four corners of commercial businesses," President Miguel noted during deliberations, and commissioners praised staff for persistent outreach. The approval concluded the item's third hearing after the sponsor had worked with neighbors to address concerns.

Next steps: the project sponsor will coordinate outdoor seating details with the Department of Public Works and comply with standard planning conditions and building permit requirements.