Applicant Thomas Ino seeks approval to reopen Waldorf Cafe and expand seating at 658 North 6th Street

Thomas Ino, the applicant for appeal 2512-004, told the City of Reading Zoning Hearing Board on Jan. 14, 2026 that he purchased 658 North 6th Street about a year ago and plans to reopen the former Waldorf Cafe.

During questioning by Town Solicitor Steven Price and board members, Ino said he seeks to increase on-site seating from the current 53 seats to 75 seats (he acknowledged earlier discussions about a larger capacity but agreed approval up to 75 seats would be acceptable). He also described proposed hours: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to midnight on other days. Ino said he has not received complaints from neighbors and that on-street parking is available on nearby streets.

Board members and staff advised procedural and infrastructure requirements. The board asked the applicant to submit a narrative regarding sewer planning so the Department of Public Works can determine whether a sewage module is required; if approval is granted, that requirement may be included in the decision. A board member also suggested striping the site’s private parking lot to help organize spaces; Ino agreed.

Tom Fox asked about Ino’s experience operating a bar; Ino said this would be his first business ownership but that he has extensive experience working in restaurants and he expects family members to help run the establishment.

No members of the public testified for or against the appeal. The chair closed the hearing and said the board will render and mail a written decision after the February meeting; the applicant need not attend that meeting.

Next steps: the applicant should provide any requested sewer planning narrative and staff will include required conditions with the written decision.