Board recommends approval for Snap Taco bistro; requires glazing specs and property-owner sign-off for sidewalk patio

The Birmingham Planning Board unanimously recommended approval Wednesday for the final site plan and a special land-use permit for Snap Taco, a proposed bistro at 126 South Old Woodward, subject to several final specifications.

Staff said the restaurant qualifies as a bistro under Article 9 (interior seating under 65) and that the applicant proposes 30 interior seats plus an eight-seat outdoor patio within the furnishing zone. Staff recommended conditional approval pending glazing specifications for a new garage-style window/door, written permission from the neighboring property owner to extend patio seating into part of the adjacent frontage, and final table and furniture specifications.

Applicant Michael Lico told the board the design team reduced the patio footprint after feedback from a neighboring tenant and plans to install built-in bench planters along the curb line to protect dining from traffic. Architect Justin Madero said the planters and furniture will be high quality and that final materials will match the proposed garage-door finish.

Board action: A motion adopting the planning department’s findings and recommending approval passed unanimously. Conditions require the applicant to submit glazing specifications, the neighbor’s written permission for any furnishing-zone encroachment, finalized patio furniture details, and compliance with all departmental comments before permits issue.

Next steps: The planning department will forward the board’s recommendation to the city commission for the special land-use permit decision and will hold final permit review once the applicant provides the required documents.