The South Gate Planning Commission convened on September 30, 2025, to discuss a significant proposal that could enhance the dining experience for local residents. The meeting centered around a request from Tacos El Unico, a well-established restaurant in the community, to extend its operating hours and obtain a conditional use permit for on-site alcohol sales.

Currently, Tacos El Unico operates from 9:30 AM to 11 PM Sunday through Tuesday and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. The restaurant seeks to modify these hours, opening at 9 AM daily and closing at midnight. This change aims to align the restaurant's hours with the proposed alcohol sales, which would include beer and wine served alongside meals.

The proposal includes installing beer taps and a refrigerator for bottled alcohol, allowing patrons to enjoy drinks with their meals. The restaurant occupies a significant portion of its building and has a designated area for alcohol storage, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

City staff indicated that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) due to its nature as an existing facility without any structural modifications. The Planning Commission must make three findings to approve the conditional use permit, which staff believes can be met based on the current proposal.

Jennifer Oden, representing the restaurant's ownership, expressed gratitude for the support from city staff and highlighted the restaurant's long-standing presence in South Gate since the mid-1990s. The Sanchez family, who owns and operates Tacos El Unico, has invested significantly in the restaurant's remodeling and upkeep, contributing to the local economy and community spirit.

The Planning Commission's decision on this proposal could have a positive impact on the local dining scene, providing residents with more options for enjoying meals and beverages in a familiar setting. As the meeting concluded, the commission opened the floor for questions, inviting further discussion on the proposal and its implications for the community.