This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Echo Park Coffee Shop in a 'Fix' Over Liquor License
Photo by andysternberg via Flickr
When local restaurants or cafes seek a liquor license, the same nay-saying arguments tend to be hauled out: it will cause too much noise, there isn't enough parking, and what about the children?The most recent purveyor of gastronomic delights to encounter this pickle (ha) is Fix Coffee, in Echo Park.
Owner Mark Gallucci, who opened Fix at the corner of Echo Park Ave and Baxter Street in 2008, held a meeting for the public last night to get feedback on his idea for adding food, wine and beer to the menu at Fix. The cafe currently serves lighter fare, like coffee, tea, pastries and sandwiches.
According to Echo Park Patch, opinions were divided. There were the usual noise and parking arguments made against the proposal, as well as the ol' "close proximity to schools" concern thrown in for good measure. But Echo Park activist Rosie Betanzos spoke out in favor of the plan:
"Call it gentrification, call it whatever you want," she said, "but you can walk in Echo Park now, and it's because of businesses along Echo Park Avenue." "This guy has gone out of his way to talk to you, "she added. "'He didn't have to do this. And that's integrity."
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
