Somerville Restaurant's Hours Reduced to Address Community Safety Concerns

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Somerville Restaurant’s Late-Night Hours Slashed After Struggles

The vibrant culinary scene in Somerville faces a challenge as a local Brazilian restaurant, Gauchao Brazilian Cuisine, is forced to reduce its operating hours due to a staggering number of police responses. The Somerville Licensing Commission, addressing public safety concerns, announced that the restaurant's hours will change from 2 a.m. to 1 a.m. following 62 calls to 911 this year, with the majority occurring during late-night hours.

A Community Issue: Noise and Safety Concerns

This significant number of calls—a stark increase compared to other local establishments—highlights a growing issue around noise complaints, fights, and even a gunfire incident earlier this year. For context, while Gauchao received 62 calls, other bars in the area averaged merely one to four calls during the same period. Lieutenant Diogo de Oliveira emphasized that these late-night disturbances often occur over weekends, requiring officers to respond multiple times.

Impact on Local Culture and Business

Gauchao, located on Broadway in East Somerville, switched ownership last year and had been granted the late-night license based on a clean history from its previous owner. Speaking at a recent showcase hearing, Commission Chair Joseph Lynch reminded the new management of the privileges attached to their license, emphasizing that it is not a right but a discretionary privilege granted by the commission.

Restaurant's Commitment to Change

Amid the backlash, Gauchao's management expressed awareness of the need for improvement. The owner's son, Michael Herrera, outlined efforts to mitigate noise by removing speakers and insulating the building. He acknowledged the uphill battle of maintaining a restaurant in the current climate, reinforcing the importance of balancing community standards with business vitality. “Let’s do better,” Lynch urged both management and the city to work together for a more peaceful neighborhood.

As residents look for a revitalizing dining experience in Somerville, the focus turns to Gauchao and its commitment to creating a more harmonious local environment to ensure success not just for the restaurant, but for the entire community.

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Somerville Restaurant's Hours Reduced to Address Community Safety Concerns

Somerville Restaurant’s Late-Night Hours Slashed After Struggles

A Community Issue: Noise and Safety Concerns

Impact on Local Culture and Business

Restaurant's Commitment to Change

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