In a close vote of 16-15, the North End / Waterfront Residents’ Association (NEWRA) supported the application to allow for a take out permit for Monica’s Mercato new pizzeria, located at 130-130B Salem Street in Boston’s North End. The pizza shop is already in operation through a side door on Noyes Place and is part of the recently expanded grocery and gourmet shop on Salem Street.
The application was presented by Attorney Bill Ferrulo along with Frank Mendoza of Mendoza Brothers LLC. Mr. Ferrulo explained that in order to allow for made-to-order pizza, the store is seeking the necessary conditional use relief under the restaurant zoning code. Monica’s is located on Salem Street in an area zoned as a Neighborhood Shopping subdistrict.
There were questions regarding the newly added entrance on Noyes Place, a private way that allows for public access off Salem Street. A Noyes Place resident expressed concerns regarding customers eating on nearby stoops and leaving trash. Another abutter spoke in favor of the Mendoza family and their longstanding commitment to the neighborhood.
View the video above for the complete discussion at the NEWRA meeting from January 8, 2015. The other neighborhood group, NEWNC, will hear the same application on Monday, January 12, 2015. The Zoning Board of Appeal is expected to hear the issue on February 10, 2015 at City Hall. NEWRA and NEWNC votes are advisory only to the ZBA that will make the final city determination.
