One of Mansfield's new Asian-inspired restaurants is doing well enough add 80 new seats, expanding into an adjacent unused space.
, in the Mansfield Marketplace on School Street, has been open about two years, and owner Bobby Lau appeared Wednesday before selectmen to report he has already started construction on the expansion project.
"I was able to get a spot with an additional 1500 square feet," said Lau, who was presenting plans for the alteration of the seating capacity, a requirement of the restaurant's all-alcohol license.
Lau said the ongoing construction, adding 65 indoor seats and a seasonal outside patio with another 20 seats, has not interrupted service to patrons. He rolled out plans that showed an additional hallway and two function rooms.
The present capacity of the restaurant is 120.
Selectmen squinted at the small print on the individual plans Lau distributed, and said they could not see details of the layout. They also balked at the outdoor patio, saying details of the fencing around the patio must be made clear, so there is no chance of drinks being passed over a rail to another person.
Town Manager Bill Ross noted building inspector Nick Riccio has already issued the building permit, but noted, "The bigger issue is the outside seating - it was not mentioned in the original application."
Ross suggested the board continue the hearing so that Lau can bring in larger and more complete plans.
"You have to show where the outside seating will be," said Doug Annino, and chairman Jess Aptowitz added the seating must be in a secure area.
The restaurant offers a bar that features an extensive sake list, and a selection of shushi and sashimi. Lau also offers both Chinese and Japanese appetizers and entrees, with several Korean and Thai selections and a children's menu.
Mansfield Marketplace is directly across School Street from the .
The hearing has been continued to next week's meeting, where Lau will present more detailed plans for the addition.