Outdoor dining expansion approved for Darien
Earlier this month, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted to approve the current outdoor dining plans through the end of 2021 for Giovanni’s, Post Corner Pizza, Rory’s, Papa Joe’s, Nino’s, Tengda Asian Bistro, and a fitness studio, the Bar Method.
DARIEN — “Last year it was about survival. This year, it’s about recovery.”
That’s how Baywater Properties’ David Genovese, who is behind many downtown eateries, described expanded and continuing outdoor dining this spring for Darien’s restaurants.
The Planning & Zoning Commission has approved the continuance of the outdoor dining plans of several Darien residents and permitted the expansion of others. The approvals take effect April 1.
Darien reopened outdoor dining in May, and the town relaxed customary zoning guidelines during the unusual times of COVID-19. Restaurants and, in some cases, fitness studios put up large tents to allow customers to enjoy their services safely.
Earlier this month, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted to approve the current outdoor dining plans through the end of 2021 for Giovanni’s, Post Corner Pizza, Rory’s, Papa Joe’s, Nino’s, Tengda Asian Bistro, and a fitness studio, the Bar Method.
At that meeting, Papa Joe’s manager Steven Rivieccio said extending the guidelines was “about making people happy, and keeping them safe.”
Also earlier this month, Ten Twenty Post owner David Nelson said he expects a good spring after the commission approved an outdoor renovation for the restaurant that includes removing the outdoor tent and adding a pergola in the back. Additional outdoor seating will also be created along the side of the restaurant.
Inside improvements will also be coming, in terms of changing colors in what Nelson described as a “facelift” for the 13-year-old restaurant to “lighten it up.”