STUDIO CITY : Cabaret Approved by Zoning Official

A city zoning administrator on Friday granted permission for a new cabaret to open on Ventura Boulevard despite objections that the restaurant would be too noisy and create parking problems for neighbors.

The planned cabaret, Pasion, situated at 12215 Ventura Boulevard--was granted a city permit to serve alcohol and food, have dancing and provide live entertainment.

Associate Zoning Administrator John Parker restricted the club’s operating hours and required the restaurant owner to build a fence between the strip shopping center and an adjoining business. Alcohol may only be served with food, he ruled.

“We were happy with the actions of the zoning administrator,” said developer Allen Adel”There aren’t any facilities in the area that can bring entertainment to patrons who like to go to a supper club, listen to fine music and perhaps dance to a tune.”

Neighbors fear that the music will be more raucous than relaxing, however.

At the hearing, several neighbors asked the zoning administrator to reject Adel’s request, saying the site is not appropriate for a late-night dance club because it is too close to homes. Critics predict that noise will echo off the concrete of the adjacent Los Angeles River.

“They can offer a list of conditions a mile long, but in these days of fiscal restraint, who’s going to enforce them?” said Tony Lucente, president of the Studio City Residents Assn. “Is the city really going to send out sound engineers every time there’s a noise problem?”

The administrator’s decision becomes official when he releases a written determination, which is expected in 14 to 18 days. Lucente said he would study the report and discuss with association members whether to appeal the decision.