Somerville Officials Crack Down on Ube Cafe, Owners Claim "Confusing" Licensing Orders
The owners of Kula Jay's Ube Kafe, a Filipino-inspired cafe in Somerville, have found themselves at odds with the city over licensing issues, leading to two separate closures. The cafe initially opened its doors in mid-November, but was shut down just eight days later due to an expired food license for the space it occupied, despite having recently been renewed.
According to Kula Jay's owner Sarai Ricciardi, the confusion arose from a change in zoning regulations that affected Gerly's Ice Cream, the existing business occupying the space. When Kula Jay's moved in, they were told by city officials that they needed to either renew Gerly's license with modified operations or switch license holders from Gerly's to their own. However, after some back-and-forth, the owners eventually decided on the first option.
However, when it came time to implement this plan, the cafe was met with a new hurdle - a change in plans that required them to install an added hood ventilation system and beverage equipment. Despite having completed all necessary renovations, Kula Jay's was forced to close again on December 2, citing an "illegal sandwich" as the reason.
In response to these closures, supporters have taken to social media to voice their support for the owners, with many expressing frustration at the city's red tape and lack of clarity in its messaging. One local business owner described the process of opening a new shop as a daunting task, citing the need for multiple licenses and permits before being able to even open doors.
The Ricciardis remain hopeful that they can eventually do business in Somerville, bringing more Filipino cuisine options to the area. They have received some positive news recently, with a building commissioner stating that Kula Jay's was in full compliance - but they are still waiting for ISD to remove their sign from the business door.
The situation has raised questions about the challenges faced by small businesses and entrepreneurs looking to enter new markets, particularly those catering to diverse cultural communities.
The owners of Kula Jay's Ube Kafe, a Filipino-inspired cafe in Somerville, have found themselves at odds with the city over licensing issues, leading to two separate closures. The cafe initially opened its doors in mid-November, but was shut down just eight days later due to an expired food license for the space it occupied, despite having recently been renewed.
According to Kula Jay's owner Sarai Ricciardi, the confusion arose from a change in zoning regulations that affected Gerly's Ice Cream, the existing business occupying the space. When Kula Jay's moved in, they were told by city officials that they needed to either renew Gerly's license with modified operations or switch license holders from Gerly's to their own. However, after some back-and-forth, the owners eventually decided on the first option.
However, when it came time to implement this plan, the cafe was met with a new hurdle - a change in plans that required them to install an added hood ventilation system and beverage equipment. Despite having completed all necessary renovations, Kula Jay's was forced to close again on December 2, citing an "illegal sandwich" as the reason.
In response to these closures, supporters have taken to social media to voice their support for the owners, with many expressing frustration at the city's red tape and lack of clarity in its messaging. One local business owner described the process of opening a new shop as a daunting task, citing the need for multiple licenses and permits before being able to even open doors.
The Ricciardis remain hopeful that they can eventually do business in Somerville, bringing more Filipino cuisine options to the area. They have received some positive news recently, with a building commissioner stating that Kula Jay's was in full compliance - but they are still waiting for ISD to remove their sign from the business door.
The situation has raised questions about the challenges faced by small businesses and entrepreneurs looking to enter new markets, particularly those catering to diverse cultural communities.
. Like, what even is going on with Somerville's licensing processes? One day they need to switch licenses holders, next thing you know they're demanding an added hood ventilation system 
. It's like the city's trying to strangle small businesses before they even have a chance to thrive.
. Can't the city just give these entrepreneurs some clarity? They're not asking for much, just a chance to bring their unique culture and cuisine to the community 
. And what's with the "illegal sandwich" excuse? Are they kidding me? 
. Small businesses need to navigate enough obstacles without Somerville adding its own special brand of bureaucratic nonsense 
. I hope Kula Jay's can get back on track soon and bring some much-needed diversity to the area 
.
. First off, I'd love to see the actual licensing orders that led to these closures - can we get a copy of those? It sounds like there were some pretty major miscommunications going on between the city and Kula Jay's owners.
Did they actually serve something that was, like, literally against the law or did it just sound good to shut them down? Either way, it's not exactly reassuring.
. Can someone explain how this works?
. I get that licensing and permits can be a headache, but come on, how many times do you have to shut down someone for "technicalities"? 
. I'm all about supporting local businesses and giving them space to grow, but this is just too much red tape 
A new Filipino cuisine option for Somerville? That would've been awesome 
!
First they're closed down for an expired license, then they have to redo their whole setup because of some zoning change and now it's like the city is being all dramatic about a sandwich? 
It's like, come on city officials, get it together! 
... they got all these hoops to jump through just to get started, but it's not even the same now! Now you gotta deal with licensing issues and zoning regulations that are always changing. I feel for Sarai and her crew at Kula Jay's - they're trying to bring some delicious Filipino food to Somerville, but it's like they can't catch a break 
. Small businesses deserve clarity & support, not endless headaches 
. We gotta support our own, you know? 
Kula Jay's seems legit, and they're bringin' somethin' new to the table - Filipino cuisine, yay! 
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!