Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Wanted: Three good bistro applicants

The City Commission has said it will consider issuing eight new bistro liquor licenses this year -- six to establishments that have been around for at least five years, and two to new businesses.

So far, four existing establishments have applied, and one new business. At this point, it looks like it will be first-come, first-served. That doesn't seem to be a problem, because there is a dearth of existing establishments that either fit the bill for a bistro license, or want one. And there doesn't seem to be an overwhelming demand from new businesses.

The four existing businesses that have applied are Elie's, Salvatore Scallopini, Cosi and Papa Joe's. The new applicant is downtown Birmingham's biggest property owner, Edward Fuller.

Assuming all the current applicants are approved, that leaves room for two existing restaurants, and one new one.

Get 'em while they're hot, folks.