How is Los Angeles’ Al Fresco Dining Program Saving Local Restaurants?

In a significant move to support local businesses, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has announced an extension of the Al Fresco dining program deadline to December 31, 2024. This extension comes as a relief to the 3,000 business owners who have relied on the program since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Al Fresco program, initially launched in 2020, allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking lots for outdoor dining, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy during a challenging time.

The Genesis and Evolution of the Al Fresco Program

The Al Fresco program was introduced as an emergency measure in 2020 to help restaurants stay afloat when indoor dining was restricted due to the pandemic. The program simplified the permitting process, allowing restaurant owners to quickly set up outdoor dining areas. According to Mary Nemick, spokeswoman for the city’s Bureau of Engineering, approximately 3,000 restaurants took advantage of this streamlined process.

The program’s popularity led the Los Angeles City Council to vote for its permanent establishment last year. However, the transition from temporary permits to permanent ones has proven to be a complex and time-consuming process for many restaurant owners. Initially, the deadline for obtaining permanent permits was set for July 31, 2024. Due to the challenges faced by business owners, Mayor Bass extended the deadline to the end of the year, giving them more time to comply with the new regulations.

Challenges and Support for Business Owners

Despite the extension, the transition to permanent permits has not been without its hurdles. Restaurant owners like Camila Perry of The Oaks Tavern in Sherman Oaks have found the application process to be cumbersome. Perry, who has been using her parking lot for outdoor dining since the pandemic began, expressed frustration over the need to submit detailed plans and measurements for her setup. “It’s frustrating because we’re not building anything new,” Perry said. “We need to draw two plans with everything measured out just to keep our outdoor tent in place.”

To alleviate these challenges, Mayor Bass has directed city departments to streamline the application process and provide additional support to restaurant owners. The city has committed to reviewing all completed applications within 30 days of submission and issuing conditional approvals for those with paid fees. Departments will also participate in webinars, virtual meetings, and application clinics to assist business owners with the Al Fresco guidelines and project site plan issues.

Economic Impact and Future Prospects

The Al Fresco program has been a lifeline for many restaurants, allowing them to increase their seating capacity and generate more revenue. Nancy Hoffman Vanyek, president and CEO of the Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber, emphasized the importance of the program for local businesses. “The additional footprint allows us to raise more money, hire additional staff, and create jobs,” she said.

Eddie Navarrette, executive director of the Independent Hospitality Coalition, also highlighted the program’s significance. “The Al Fresco dining permits allowed 3,500 businesses to skip the pricey, months-long process of applications, approvals, and fees,” Navarrette said. He credited the program with the survival of many restaurants during the pandemic.

However, the transition to a permanent program has not been without its critics. Some restaurant owners, like Jenee Kim of Park’s BBQ in Koreatown, have found the new regulations to be overly complex and costly. Kim, who spent $80,000 to build an outdoor patio during the pandemic, considered tearing it down after learning about the extensive permitting requirements. “They said we need to get all the permits, which costs money and takes time. It’s not worth it,” Kim said.

Our Advice on the City

For occasional travelers visiting Los Angeles, the Al Fresco dining program offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene in an outdoor setting. We recommend exploring neighborhoods like Koreatown, Sherman Oaks, and San Pedro, where many restaurants have embraced outdoor dining. Enjoying a meal under the stars, surrounded by the city’s lively atmosphere, is an experience not to be missed.

For expert travelers, consider diving deeper into the local food culture by visiting lesser-known eateries that have benefited from the Al Fresco program. These hidden gems often offer a more intimate and authentic dining experience. Additionally, keep an eye out for special events and pop-up dining experiences that take advantage of the city’s outdoor spaces.

In conclusion, the extension of the Al Fresco dining program is a testament to Los Angeles’ commitment to supporting its local businesses. While challenges remain, the city’s efforts to streamline the application process and provide additional resources are steps in the right direction. As you explore the diverse culinary landscape of Los Angeles, take a moment to appreciate the resilience and creativity of the restaurant owners who have adapted to these unprecedented times.