Danbury zoning commission approves Blend and Brew’s cafe liquor permit with conditions

The City of Danbury Zoning Commission voted 7–0 on Nov. 25 to approve a special permit allowing Blend and Brew, a 20-seat cafe at 317 Main Street, to sell alcoholic beverages.

Chair Theodore J. Haddad Jr. read staff recommendations and an associate planner’s letter that described the proposed change of use for the 1,600-square-foot space and confirmed adequate parking in an adjacent private garage. Applicant Steven Salazar told the commission the business, which opened in August, is a health‑focused coffee and smoothie shop that would add alcohol to offer an upscale, low‑noise evening option rather than operate as a late‑night bar.

“This is not gonna be, you know, like a bar bar place late at night,” Steven Salazar said, describing the intended atmosphere as conversation‑friendly rather than a loud drinking establishment.

Commissioners questioned the applicants about menu size, kitchen capacity, and hours; several members emphasized that the zoning definition of a cafe requires food to be offered. Councilman D. Rotello and Councilman Dwayne Perkins spoke in favor of the concept but asked the commission to consider restrictions on sidewalk entertainment and to require clearer hours and kitchen details.

To address those concerns, Commissioner Botello moved to approve the petition with conditions that alcohol be served by staff (service‑bar only), that no sidewalk tables or outdoor entertainment be allowed, and that no window signage promote liquor brands. The motion passed by a roll‑call voice vote, with seven votes in favor and none opposed.

Director Al Bakri told the commission that any changes to the approved internal site plan would require the applicant to return for approval, and that other departmental permits (including signage) remain required. The commission recorded the approval under old business after closing the public hearing.

Next steps: the approved special permit and the administrative permit processes (zoning enforcement verification, signage and permit center approvals) remain on the applicant’s checklist before alcohol sales may begin. The record shows the commission adjourned at 8:59 p.m.