SHERMAN OAKS : Zoning Officials OK Restrictions on Cafe

Top city zoning officials Tuesday ordered an embattled Sherman Oaks coffeehouse to cut back its late-night hours, provide uniformed security guards after 5 p.m., and additional parking for its patrons. Upholding a list of 12 restrictions placed on the Insomnia Cafe by a city zoning administrator in March, the Board of Zoning Appeals said the conditions could be reviewed in one year.

Neighbors’ complaints about Insomnia’s allegedly loud and unruly patrons have been the subject of at least two public hearings since the coffeehouse opened more than a year ago.

While some cafe neighbors praised the action, cafe co-owner John Dunn blasted it. “It makes me sick to my stomach,” Dunn said. “I don’t know if I even want to live in Los Angeles anymore.”

Dunn, who said he would appeal the decision to the Los Angeles City Council, said the reduced hours would affect the cafe at its busiest times.

“We were punished for being too successful. Now they want us to go out of business.”

Under the order, the cafe, at 13718 Ventura Blvd., would have to close at 11 p.m Sundays through Thursdays and at 1 a.m. on weekends. The cafe is now open until 3 a.m. during the week and 4 a.m. on weekends.

The board gave Dunn an extra hour to remain open, compared to the original order of a city zoning administrator. One of the cafe’s chief opponents said she is satisfied with the decision.

“I think the board made an attempt to be fair,” said Ann Douglas, of the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Assn. “It all hinges on John Dunn’s sincerity.”

Richard Close, president of the association, warned against Dunn’s plan to appeal.

“I would hope he would accept the recommendations,” he said, because the City Council could be stricter.

Vivian Rescalvo, planning deputy for Councilman Zev Yaroslavsky, said Dunn has been reluctant to solve problems for more than a year.

“Our objective is not to put anyone out of business,” she said. “But it’s time for Mr. Dunn to give us something for a while and then we can take another look at the situation.”