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Commission approves extended hours for Ocean Avenue hookah lounge to 2 a.m.
Summary
The Planning Commission approved an amendment to the conditional use for Happy Vape at 1963 Ocean Avenue to allow operation until 2 a.m. daily to support a hookah lounge business model after Proposition E limited flavored tobacco sales.
The commission approved a conditional‑use modification allowing Happy Vape at 1963 Ocean Avenue to extend hours of operation from the previously permitted period to 10 a.m.–2 a.m. daily, reflecting a business shift away from flavored sales toward a steam‑stone hookah lounge model following Proposition E.
Project representatives said later hours would help keep eyes on a quiet commercial corridor and reduce vacancies; operator Stefano Casalado told commissioners the extension was needed to make the hookah/lounge concept economically viable and comparable to other nearby late‑night venues. Roland Shea, a manager for the business, described the proposed steam‑stone hookah (non‑nicotine) product approved by the health department.
The Ocean Avenue Association and neighborhood speakers supported the proposal; neighbors and neighborhood business groups said the change would increase nighttime activity and safety. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the revised CUA with the department’s recommended conditions.
