Architect: Noted Restaurateur Leasing Main St. Space

Architect Rick Hoag, who is working on plans to renovate 38 Main St., former home of Bobby Q’s and Onion Alley, told the Planning and Zoning Commission tonight that noted restaurateur Sasa Mahr-Batuz has leased second floor space at the property for a “new concept” restaurant. He is the co-founder and creative director of Norwalk-based Barteca Restaurant Group, which includes the restaurant concepts Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant and bartaco. Hoag was appearing at a work session to seek approval for modification to exterior plans for the building. Several commission members objected that the plans were not in keeping with the Village District Overlay District intended to preserve downtown buildings. Nevertheless, the P&Z voted 5-2 to allow him to proceed with his application. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com