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Cambridge BZA approves special permit for Taiwanese tea house in Brattle/Harvard Square
Summary
The Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeals on Dec. 11 granted a special permit for Tita San Chen Tea House at 1 Brattle Square Unit 2C, citing the Harvard Square advisory committee—ndorsement and finding the site meets quick-service/formula-business criteria; the vote was 5—or, 0 opposed.
A special permit for a Taiwanese tea house won Board of Zoning Appeals approval Thursday evening, clearing the way for a small, sit‑down tea operator in Brattle/Harvard Square.
Attorney James Rafferty told the board he was appearing for the applicant, "Tita San Chen Tea House," and described the proposed operation as an authentic Taiwanese tea house with 18 seats and a brewed‑to‑order service that takes about five minutes. Rafferty said the Harvard Square advisory committee reviewed the application and forwarded a positive recommendation, offering nonbinding suggestions on lighting, outdoor seating and hours.
The board found the use met the quick‑service/quick‑service formula‑business standards cited in the application and voted to grant the relief. Chair Jim Monteverdi read the special‑permit conditions, which incorporate the submitted drawings and the advisory committee letter by reference. Board members Carol Agate, Zaria Miranda, Michael LaRosa and Daniel Gonzales recorded votes in favor; Monteverdi recorded the motion and the final vote was 5–0 in favor.
Rafferty said the proponent intends to explore outdoor seating and the licensing work with the License Commission if appropriate. The decision requires the work to conform to the plans and photo simulations filed with the BZA and incorporates the advisory committee's suggestions as nonbinding guidance.
The applicant and architect were present for the hearing and thanked the board after the vote. The operation will next pursue any required licensing and building permits before opening.
