May 2026 DRC Recap: Outdoor Dining Patio for Prime Cigar
The Midtown Development Review Committee (DRC) reviewed a single proposal in their May meeting.
A proposal for outdoor patio dining at the southeast corner of 11th St. and Peachtree St. was presented. The DRC appreciated the new patio space, but raised many questions and concerns as detailed below:
1035 Peachtree St.
A new 1,005 SF outdoor patio dining area was presented for the patrons of the existing Prime Cigar/Restaurant at the southeast corner of 11th and Peachtree St. A new door is proposed to access the new tables and chairs on the outdoor patio. Two existing trees would be removed and replaced by two new street trees along 11th St.
- The presentation contained notable inconsistencies that must be resolved before the project can advance. These included conflicts between the new patio door and: 1) a proposed ramp from Peachtree St., 2) new patio tables and chairs, and 3) a noticeable grade difference between the interior floor level and the exterior patio level. These and other outstanding conflicts in the elevations must be fully resolved.
- A 36”-42” tall perimeter railing enclosing the full patio area is required under the City’s Alcohol Code given the stated alcohol service. The railing system must be fully detailed, specifying the intended height and material.
- The patio structure was recommended to be a composite that limits water runoff into the building and is otherwise sealed to prevent unwanted pests.
- Within the ROW portion of the patio area no amplified sound or live entertainment is permitted. Hours of operation are also restricted to being no later than 11:00 PM Sunday through Thursday, and no later than 12 midnight on Friday and Saturday per the City’s ROW dining rules.
- The DRC welcomed the addition of two new 4” caliper ‘Water Hickory’ street trees along 11th St.; but noted that the tree wells should be expanded to 5’ x 10’ to align with Midtown streetscape standards.
- The illegal chain-link fencing in the adjacent parking lot (installed without a permit in fall 2023) must be completely removed. It can be replaced with code-compliant structures and methods to define the approximate 100 parking spaces designated for use by these businesses. Acceptable delineating means include: wheel stops; concrete curbing; removable or fixed bollards; decorative planters or landscape islands with low shrubs; alternative striping/markings; signage; or a combination of these. The approach is intended to be durable, visually appealing, and fully compliant with applicable code.
- The DRC encouraged the applicant to introduce windows on the north façade overlooking the patio toward 11th St. to improve their street presence along the northern frontage.
Next Steps: The committee expects to receive updated info to be handled via electronic review to confirm that all open questions and comments will be addressed.