Vlora Seeks Street-Level Patio

Despite a history of violations, restaurant, at 545 Boylston Street, is seeking to build a street-level patio with full-service and seating.

Co-owner Cindy Tsai was before the Licencing and Building Use Committee in December with the request to change the current zoning to 'take-out,' and build a street level patio that would "increase the number of seats allowed and "garner more visibility and increase business in the summer."

With stairs leading to an entrance below the street, the restaurant tends to get overlooked by pedestrians, and the sunken area can sometimes become a pit for bottles and other trash, Tsai said.

"Historically it's been unsuccessful," she said.

But Vlora also has a list of citations, including the most recent one from July 2 that resulted in a four-day suspension for overcrowding (207 people when 138 were allowed), and serving hard alcohol with only a Malt, Wine and Liqueurs licence.

The board was hesitant to not oppose the proposal, saying they generally like to see a clean record. 

"That location is in a tough spot - we know," Chairman Jim Hill said. "You've been cited multiple times for operating outside your license. Your credibility in the community is tarnished."

The board went to executive session to make a decision on whether to support the proposal. While the committee holds no legal power, it has a respected place in the approval process, and acts on behalf of the neighborhood residents.