Panini’s plans dish out dissent

Is the Panini Cafe on Pacific Coast Highway a nuisance, traffic hazard, community asset or one of the finest, friendliest restaurants in town?

According to the letters that have flowed into the Newport Beach Planning Commission office this month, it may be all of the above.

The commission is set to rule tonight on the popular Corona del Mar eatery, which has applied to move a few doors down to a block already crowded with dining spots. Two petitions have circled the neighborhood in recent weeks, one claiming the new Panini will cause traffic and parking problems, and another seeking to limit the number of restaurants on the block serving alcohol.

In its recommendation to the commission, the city planning staff gave the Panini move a mixed review, saying the plan met most requirements but expressing concern about the parking and traffic issues.

A number of residents and business owners, meanwhile, have been more candid with their opinions.

By Wednesday, the city had received 11 petitions and a number of letters opposing the move, while 43 letters defended Panini.

“I would appreciate you supporting their application to relocate within the village, as this will allow more customers to enjoy their fabulous cuisine and hospitality,” wrote Corona del Mar resident Yvette Brown.

Brad Smith, the branch manager of Sage Credit Company in Newport Beach, called the restaurant “a great clean establishment” and a benefit to the Corona del Mar area.

Others, particularly fellow business owners on Pacific Coast Highway, had reservations about the restaurant moving.

Donald Lawrenz, the president of the firm that owns the building next door to Panini’s proposed site, said he predicted the new location would worsen congestion in the area.

“Certainly subjecting casual diners to fumes, dirt and possible altercations with impaired drivers and vehicles is not in anyone’s best interest,” he wrote.

Panini, which has operated since 1995 on Pacific Coast Highway, purchased the building vacated earlier this year by the Orient Handel rug shop.

The owners say the new location would allow for more parking and also provide in-house, handicapped-accessible restrooms.

Manager Hansen Kamci said a number of regular customers had stopped in to voice encouragement as the petitions made their way around town.

“A lot of people are supporting our project,” he said.

WHAT: Newport Beach Planning Commission

WHEN: Tonight at 6:30

WHERE: Council Chambers, 3300 Newport Blvd.

FYI: Call (949) 644-3208 or visit www.city.newport- beach.ca.us

MICHAEL MILLER may be reached at (714) 966-4617 or at [email protected].