A Richmond eatery received city council’s unanimous vote to approve its liquor service hour extension.
Heyjo Music BBQ Bar asked the city for an extend to their hours of liquor service from midnight to 2 a.m. Sunday through Saturdays.
The eatery, located at 8291 Alexandra Rd., took over the premises, with a similar business, in May 2022.
The business highlighted to city council that they will not be changing their maximum occupant capacity which is currently at 150.
According to Heyjo’s application, the increase for a service hour extension will “better serve their clients and the community” as well as the flexibility to serve the public in “competing with other food venues.” It noted that other restaurants in the area had also been approved to serve alcohol later into the night.
City staff noted that the hour and liquor service extension would help facilitate the economic growth in Richmond according to the council’s 2018-2022 strategic plan.
Coun. Alexa Loo called the hour extension a “good opportunity” for the business and for the people of Richmond.
“This is in an area that is closest to having a nightlife…in Richmond and for late night food,” said Loo, adding that the atmosphere became “quite activated” during the summer.
“It certainly is good that we are keeping everyone in Richmond and not have them drive elsewhere for late night food.”
The zoning area that the business is in does not allow for residential use, therefore, there will be no noise impact, reads the staff report.
City of Richmond has not received any opposition from the community on this application.
