Community Board reviews sidewalk cafe applications for Mamoya and Wild in Soho

Concerns over sidewalk cafe compliance took center stage at the Manhattan CB2 Outdoor Dining Working Group meeting on May 13, 2025. The discussion focused on the application for a sidewalk cafe by Mamoya Soho, located at 40 Seventh Prince Street.

During the meeting, it was revealed that while Mamoya Soho submitted a plan showing a limited number of tables, the restaurant was currently operating with a full set of tables that exceeded the approved layout. "Their diagram site plan is correct in terms of clearances... but they are currently not operating under the rules now," noted a board member, highlighting the discrepancy between the proposed and actual setup.

The board emphasized the importance of compliance, stating that Mamoya must adhere to the approved plan of three tables and maintain the required clearances to ensure pedestrian safety. "They have to stick to the three tables. They can't have more," one member asserted, warning that failure to comply could lead to enforcement actions.

The meeting also touched on another application from Wild at 535 Hudson Street, where concerns were raised about the cafe's setup obstructing pedestrian pathways. A board member shared personal experiences navigating the area, stating, "I walked by there... and it’s hard to walk by." The discussion underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing outdoor dining with public space accessibility.

As the meeting concluded, the board reiterated its commitment to ensuring that outdoor dining establishments follow regulations designed to protect both businesses and the community. The next steps include further discussions with the applicants to ensure compliance and address any ongoing issues.