UNO Chicago Grill in Braintree Closes for Two Weeks for Renovations

Renovations have begun at UNO Chicago Grill to add 26 seats and create a more flexible floor plan, as well as upgrade the exterior facade.

The Braintree restaurant at the South Shore Plaza next to Dave & Buster's is scheduled to be closed until June 19 for the project, which will bring the seat total to 239 and add an ornamental chimney to the top of the building for more visible signage. UNO sits below or out of eye sight for people driving around the Plaza or on Granite Street unless they are right upon it.

"It is by and large a facelift," said Building Inspector and member of the Board of License Commissioners Russell Forsberg.

Members of the board approved the renovations unanimously earlier this week, though they cautioned UNO's construction manager John Keating that without final approval of the changes by the state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission the company faces the risk of the ABCC telling them they have to go back and make further renovations.

"There is an inherent risk," Board Chair Joe Powers said.

If the restaurant completes renovations and the ABCC later disagrees, UNO could be required to revert back to the original plans as approved under its liquor license, Powes said. Keating said during Tuesday's hearing that UNO may consider that risk feasible. A marketing representative for the Braintree restaurant did not respond to a request for comment.

Still, Powers said the restaurant has been operating in good faith with the licensing authority in Braintree and has completed all local obligations. State approval could take a few days or as much as three to four weeks.

Keating also said that UNO would also seek permission through the mayor's office to work on Sundays, which is not normally allowed under Braintree's zoning laws.

The renovations will have no impact on parking requirements at the Plaza and the floor space ratios will largely remain unchanged, Forsberg said.