Despite objections by neighborhood residents, new Cape Verdean restaurant coming to Fall River

Despite opposition from a group of Fall River residents, a new restaurant in the city will be allowed to go into business, with stipulations.

Lawyer Arthur Frank, representing Manuel DaSilva and his daughter Elliana De Pina of Juelime Friends Lounge Inc. has been attempting since November to obtain a New All Alcohol Common Victuallers License for a new Cape Verdean restaurant at 222-226 East Main Street.

Through the course of several appearances by DaSilva in front of the Board, city residents expressed their concern after experiencing trouble resulting from previous establishments in the area. One of the main sources of contention was lack of parking which would cause customers to park throughout the neighborhood and possibly cause issues after patrons have been drinking.

DaSilva has had his supporters as well due to his experience in running a similar business in Brockton called Preto’s Island Cuisine Restaurant.

To help ease the concerns of the Board and the detractors of the restaurant, DaSilva secured a lease with a parking lot across the street that contains 24 parking spaces. After initially looking to operate the eatery into the early morning hours, DaSilva also submitted reduced hours to lessen possible noise that may have occurred late at night.

At Wednesday’s meeting, the Board agreed to grant Juelime Friends Lounge Inc. the license on the grounds that the parking lot lease is kept in addition to the decreased hours of operation. If those conditions are not met at any point, operations are to cease immediately.

The establishment will be open 6 days a week. Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and closed Monday.