Grape + Bean Rosemont received approval on its restaurant permit from Alexandria City Council on Saturday, almost three months after the establishment .
The permit calls for restaurant service similar to that found at , with a menu featuring cheese and charcuterie plates, sandwiches, salads and desserts. Beer and wine will be sold for on-premise consumption.
The restaurant will have 24 indoor seats and 36 outdoor seats when the weather is nice. The permit says Grape + Bean will move to a seven-days-a-week schedule and be open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
On Saturday, two nearby residents expressed concerns over the hours of operation, noise and anticipated parking problems.
Councilman Paul Smedberg said the hours are similar to other restaurants in residential areas in the city, such as , and .
“I think the type of crowd and product and service that this place provides will not lend itself to a rowdy crowd by any stretch,” Councilman Paul Smedberg said. “Personally, I think it is something that will be an enhancement in the neighborhood.”
Councilman Rob Krupicka said it is restaurants with live entertainment that usually create noise issues in the city. Grape + Bean Rosemont will not offer any live entertainment.
Several members of the council said they see Grape + Bean Rosemont as a "neighborhood restaurant," believing many patrons will walk and not put a strain on parking.
Vice Mayor Kerry Donley said the neighborhood support for the market to receive its restaurant permit was “somewhat remarkable” given its location. The permit application included hundreds of signatures of support from citizens.
Grape + Bean Rosemont will be subject to an annual review from city staff to make sure the restaurant stays within its guidelines. Mayor Bill Euille said the city will monitor the restaurant and address any concerns as they arise.
