The long-running debate over turning a former Quick Lube station on Hertel Avenue into a taco restaurant and bar is one step closer to being over. Deep South Taco received a go-ahead from the Buffalo Planning Board last night, but not without some very vocal public concern.
Despite lengthy explanations from Hertel-area residents on why the restaurant isn't a good fit for the neighborhood, owner and chef Richard Hamilton said he feels most people in the area are in favor of it. "The majority of the people that have been in contact with us, and provided letters and came to these meetings, have obviously been in favor," he said.
"I do believe that I've gone above and beyond, been as respectful and generous with not only my time, but also my company's dollars, to address their concerns, but sometimes, that's just not going to be enough for some people."
The board's approval was given with stipulations, including limited operating hours, a ban on outdoor music, and only a temporary approval of the space's outdoor patio. The Deep South plan still has to be presented in front of the Common Council. That is expected to happen at a hearing scheduled for today.
