Besos Tea House at 378 Main Gets Parking Variance

The Zoning Board of Review has approved a parking variance for Besos Tea House at 378 Main St., the building known as the Elms. Kristin Delegrotta of MDC Realty, which owns the property, said the project is moving forward but still needs final approval from the Fire Marshall and Building Department.

During a meeting Tuesday, the board gave Delegotta and her partner, Tony Morales, relief from the additional 12 spaces required, but mandated their employees park in a municipal lot at the end of London Street. The building has 38 parking spaces and there is public parking on the street.

The Tea House will have seating for 76 inside, with another 22 seats on the porch in season. 

Delegotta said the restaurant will feature “International Fusion” - a collection of dishes from around the world which they have given a contemporary twist.

In other action the Board gave Bank Newport permission to put five signs on their building, which is under construction next to McDonald’s at 1000 Division. That is two more signs than the ordinance allows, but they take up 40% less space than permitted.

John Renzie of Graphic Impact Signs in Pittsfield, MA said the additional signs are needed because the bank cannot be added to existing signage for the businesses at that location.

Kate Labore of DiMare Seafood Marketplace at 2706 South County Trail was granted a request to continue her presentation until the Aug. 23 meeting after a number of questions about the proposal. 

According to the agenda, Labore needs a variance to accommodate an increased seating capacity of the restaurant and construction of a front deck that does not comply with front setback requirements.