Planning Commission approves CityView dim sum relocation to Grant Avenue

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional-use authorization enabling CityView, a long-established Chinatown dim sum restaurant, to relocate to 838 Grant Avenue, permit a larger use size (up to 5,000 square feet under conditional use) and extend closing hours until midnight in the Chinatown Visitor Retail zoning district.

Nick Foster, the department planner, summarized the application and staff recommendation that the relocation would be "necessary, desirable and compatible" with the Chinatown area plan. Architect Jeremy Schaub and the project sponsor explained the proposed space, the 50/50 split between kitchen and service area, and why the larger kitchen footprint and hours provide operational flexibility for takeout and evening service. Schaub asked commissioners to "support keeping this business in Chinatown," noting the benefits to Portsmouth Square frontage activation.

Public comment was overwhelmingly in favor: dozens of callers — many Cantonese-speaking residents and small-business patrons — urged the commission to approve the relocation so CityView could remain in Chinatown. Several speakers framed the relocation as a way to preserve culture and save a beloved neighborhood business.

Commissioners asked about façade, signage and circulation to ensure the project would "bring eyes to the street" and be compatible with the historic fabric. After clarifications from staff and the sponsor on takeout access and signage controls, the commission voted 6-0 to approve the conditional use authorization with conditions.