Watch CBS News

City Council Considering Change To NYC Sunday Outdoor Brunch Rules

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- New York City lawmakers may soon change an old law that bans restaurants from offering brunch outdoors Sunday mornings.

A bill has been introduced to City Council that would allow customers to eat at tables on the sidewalk starting at 10 a.m. Right now, restaurants cannot serve diners outside until noon.

EXTRA: NYC's Best Outdoor Brunches

"New Yorkers will not be denied their Sunday brunch in the beautiful weather," Council Member Dan Garodnick said in a statement. "This regulation is outdated, widely disregarded and hostile to business and brunch-loving New Yorkers.  It needs to change."

The issue of early Sunday brunch came up recently when residents in Greenpoint, Brooklyn reportedly complained about crowded sidewalks.

The city then cracked down on restaurants ignoring the ban and issued a ticket to one business and a summons to another.

"In the interest of neighborhood residents and the small business community, this legislation supports a meaningful balance that promotes their coexistence," Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of Small Business, said in a statement.

The Sunday brunch bill has wide support and is expected to pass.

Please share your thoughts below...

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.