The Boston Zoning Board of Appeal (ZBA) approved four North End / Waterfront requests at its April 9, 2013 hearing that will allow significant businesses to move forward in the neighborhood.

(1) A Pinkberry Frozen Yogurt franchise at 283-285 Hanover Street received approval from the Zoning Board for a 700 square feet store that was formerly Varese Shoes and most recently Nahas Shoes. Both neighborhood groups supported the zoning variance to change the occupancy and allow 8 seats for a retail store and a #36A take-out license. The requested license is for 12:00 am midnight closing on weekends and 11:00 pm weekdays.

(2) Tenoch Mexican (Alvaro Sandoval) received the go ahead for take-out service that would allow a new Mexican restaurant to open at 1-3 Lewis Street in the North End. The Residents’ Association (NEWRA) supported this request but the Neighborhood Council (NEWNC) voted against it.

(3) Cobblestone Cafe (Carla Gomes) received approval for take out that will allow the opening of the new Cobblestone Cafe at 227-237 Hanover Street, formerly Hot Tomatoes. The Neighborhood Council supported this request and the Residents’ Association submitted a no objection letter.

(4) Zoning relief was granted to property owner Chris Young for a second floor addition at 78-80 Salem Street. The existing 1-story building at the corner of Stillman Street was previously Michael’s Salon. The plan with the 2nd floor addition is to expand Pulcinella Bar E Ristorante adding 32 more seats. The Neighborhood Council (NEWNC) supported this request while the Residents’ Association (NEWRA) opposed it.