Popular West Village eatery Saint Ambroeus may be forced to close its sidewalk tables because of new City enforced legislation.The Department of Consumer Affairs has sent notice to 17 New York restaurants including Saint Ambroeus, telling them that that they will have to close their sidewalk seating areas unless they are willing to comply with the city’s zoning regulations.
The notice reads: “Please be advised you have 100 business days from and including May 1 to complete one of the following options,” the agency notified owners on April 29, reported the New York Post. The restaurants were given the options to get a “certified land survey” to show they’re operating on private property, file for a zoning exemption or surrender their permits.
We say anything that helps businesses stay afloat in these tough economic times should be encouraged and New Yorkers should be free to enjoy eating outside just like other people in other places. What do you think?
