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Cambridge Planning Board approves quick‑service 'Doner Shack' at Cambridge Crossing’s Parcel N
Summary
On Dec. 9, 2025 the Cambridge Planning Board voted to allow a quick‑service doner restaurant at 20 Child Street (Parcel N) in Cambridge Crossing, finding the use compatible with the Eastern Cambridge plan; the decision was unanimous and an associate member was appointed to the case.
The Cambridge Planning Board voted Dec. 9, 2025, to allow a quick‑service restaurant at 20 Child Street (Parcel N) in the Cambridge Crossing planned unit development, concluding the proposed use is compatible with and advances the Eastern Cambridge plan and is necessary to support the site's predominantly residential character.
Jeff Roberts, director of zoning and development in the Community Development Department, told the board that while the PUD zoning and special permit do not explicitly list a quick‑service restaurant for that location, the planning board may issue a written determination allowing the use if it is compatible with the Eastern Cambridge plan and supports the PUD's residential objectives. Roberts said staff had discussed the proposal with the prospective retailer and “we don't see any particular issues with this.”
Sam Singh, the prospective tenant, described the concept as a Doner Shack serving what he called authentic Turkish doner kebabs, along with bowls, fried chicken and shakes. "This concept is Doner Shack, which is authentic Turkish kebabs ... they have automated vertical rotisseries that shave meat off at the right intervals," Singh said, explaining the franchisee's menu and equipment.
H. Theodore (Ted) Cohen moved that the board make the written determination to allow the use, arguing it would benefit both residents and nonresidential workers in Northpointe and the adjacent area. "I think that it is a benefit to the residents and the nonresidential workers in Northpointe and this adjacent area, and I think it would be a good thing for them to have," Cohen said. Chair Mary Flynn seconded the motion. Joy Jackson was assigned to sit as the associate member on the case for the vote. The roll call recorded affirmative votes from Ted Cohen, Mary Lidecker, Diego Macias, Ashley Tan, Carolyn Zern, Joy Jackson and Chair Mary Flynn; the motion carried.
Earlier in the meeting the board unanimously accepted certified transcripts from July 22, Oct. 7, Oct. 21 and Oct. 28, 2025 as the official minutes. The board also agreed to postpone the advisory consultation on PBAC 1 (16–18 Porter Street) at the applicant's request; staff confirmed that item will be rescheduled for Jan. 13, 2026.
The board adjourned after a brief session. Members noted the next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 16, 2025, and the postponed Porter Street advisory review is set for Jan. 13, 2026.
