The Richardson City Council recently discussed the approval of a special permit for a new restaurant, Ney, which has taken over the former Palapas location. This decision is significant for the community as it introduces a full-service dining option that includes a coffee café and hookah service on its 1,300 square-foot patio.

Ney restaurant, which received its certificate of occupancy earlier this year, has made internal improvements to the space and is set to operate from 10 AM to midnight on weekdays and until 2 AM on weekends. The establishment is located within a multi-tenant shopping center that offers ample parking with 143 spaces available.

A key aspect of the discussion centered around the restaurant's patio and its compliance with city regulations regarding smoking. The city’s code mandates that smoking must occur at least 10 feet away from doors and windows, which limits the available space for smoking on the patio to approximately 900 square feet. This area could accommodate about four tables for patrons who wish to smoke.

The council also reviewed the history of smoking establishments in Richardson, noting that a special permit is required for any business that allows smoking on-site. The City Plan Commission unanimously recommended the approval of Ney's special permit, which would tie the permit to the applicant as the sole operator. The permit stipulates that smoking cannot occur indoors, aligning with health code regulations.

This new addition to the Richardson dining scene not only enhances local options but also reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to regulate smoking establishments while accommodating community preferences. As Ney prepares to open, residents can look forward to a new venue that aims to blend dining with a unique social experience.