Recent changes to outdoor dining regulations in Brooklyn have imposed significant financial burdens on restaurant owners. George Kontolios highlighted the drastic transition from the benefits of outdoor dining to the challenges posed by new city mandates. The requirement for costly permits and the deconstruction of existing structures has led to increased expenses, including hefty fines for non-compliance. The seasonal nature of roadway dining further complicates operations, as restaurants now see diminished participation and benefits, making many owners question the value of outdoor dining compared to their investments.
When outdoor dining first opened up, it helped us, it helped us have an area for people to sit and bring the community together.
We had to hire a contractor to build it out. I would say it took about, between $20,000 to $30,000 in material to put it up.
After I put my $1,500 application in, I started getting harassed by the city to take it down because it wasn't up to the regulation.
I didn't see the value in it anymore. I think I've put more out than I've gained.
Collection
[
|
...
]