Claudio E. Cabrera
Special to DNAinfo.com New York
INWOOD — A popular Inwood bar received a preliminary nod from the community for its plan for an unenclosed sidewalk cafe outside its bar on Dyckman Street.
Community Board 12's Economic Development committee voted 5-4, with one abstention, in favor of Corcho Wine Room's application to expand its seating during the committee's July meeting on Tuesday.
The board voted in favor of the license with stipulations that the owner will make the entrance wheelchair accessible and abide by a community agreement hammered out with restaurant owners on Dyckman Street, which states that their outdoor seating will close by 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
"I will do whatever is necessary to have my application move forward," said Corcho owner Benlly Polanco.
Although the community board does not normally meet during the summer, a special meeting was scheduled to review liquor license applications in the light of the 30 day timetable set by the State liquor Authority for community feedback on applications.
Corcho, which is on the popular, yet controversial strip of Dyckman Street termed "Alcohol Alley," would be the fifth alcohol serving establishment on the strip with a sidewalk cafe license, including Mamajuana Cafe, Mama Sushi, Papasito and Il Sole.
CB12 will vote on the economic development committee’s resolution during its executive meeting this month.
After, the State Liquor Authority will then have a final say, as the board serves only an advisory role.