Commission Approves Co‑branded IHOP‑Applebee’s at Century Boulevard, Limits Alcohol Hours

The Inglewood Planning Commission on Feb. 3 approved a special use permit allowing a co‑branded IHOP and Applebee’s restaurant at 4410 West Century Boulevard and the on‑site sale of distilled spirits, subject to conditions limiting alcohol hours and adding security measures. The resolution approving SUP25‑00020 was amended on the floor to set alcohol service from 10 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, include staff discretion to require security personnel from midnight to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and require a one‑year operational review.

Assistant Planner Faith Smith told the commission the site already has an existing restaurant building and security cameras; the applicant requested a Type 47 on‑site license for distilled spirits in connection with Applebee’s menu offerings. Staff concluded the project is consistent with the general plan and stated a PCN finding was required; no written communications were received.

Rudy Lopez, representing Inglewood 2017 Inc. and speaking for the applicant, described the proposal as co‑branding that places both IHOP and Applebee’s menus under one dining room and said the alcohol component is incidental to the full menu. Mariana Robles, a district manager, said the co‑branded concept operates in other markets and that staff training and operational controls would be in place. Lopez said employees would receive training on ID checks and responsible service and that management would monitor operations.

Commissioners probed hours, patio service and neighborhood impacts. Commissioner Trejo and others raised concerns that an alcohol license could undermine a family dining environment and that long hours (applicant requested up to 2 a.m.) might increase late‑night disruptions, particularly during major events such as the World Cup and Olympics. Supporters of approval, including Commissioner Rice, asked for a one‑year review and for staff to monitor operations.

A motion to approve the SUP with amended hours, a requirement that staff have discretion to require security during late hours and a one‑year review passed (recorded votes: Commissioner Fowler — aye; Commissioner Rice — aye; Commissioner Shaw Williams — aye; Chairman Springs — no). Staff reminded the public that the decision may be appealed within 20 days under the Inglewood Municipal Code.

The approval allows the co‑brand to proceed with the specified conditions; the applicant may need to complete over‑the‑counter licensing steps with the State ABC and comply with any additional conditions required by the planning division.