Commission approves Mexican Sugar restaurant with easement and SUP repeal condition

The Addison Planning and Zoning Commission approved a special use permit for Mexican Sugar, a proposed restaurant with on‑premise alcohol at 4951 Beltline Road, during the meeting. Staff recommended approval with two conditions: dedicate pedestrian easements prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy and repeal previous SUPs tied to prior restaurant/entertainment uses on the site so that only the new SUP would apply.

Leslie, director of Development and Neighborhood Services, said the existing building is just under 8,000 square feet and the applicant proposes a roughly 952‑square‑foot patio expansion and a bar for on‑site alcohol service. The property has a history of restaurant uses, including a 2014 SUP for a prior tenant; the site has been vacant since the previous operator left mid‑to‑late last year.

Leslie said required site changes include removal of two trees to restore emergency access and the loss of several parking spaces; staff noted the site would still exceed the minimum parking requirement (149 provided vs. 126 required after changes). The property owner agreed to provide a pedestrian access and maintenance easement on Beltline and Quorum Drive to support future Beltline 1.5 pedestrian improvements.

Stephen Gallant, vice president of development for Whiskeycake Holdings (the owner), said the improvements would result in the loss of about 14 parking spaces (on top of seven previously lost) but that the owner is providing a 20‑foot area that could accommodate bicycle parking. Commissioners discussed bicycle parking and the longer timeline for Quorum Road pedestrian improvements; Leslie said the project is at roughly 15% design and that parks and public works are pursuing grant funding, with full implementation likely several years away.

A commissioner moved to approve the SUP as presented; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote.