By Michael Coughlin Jr.

At the Orient Heights Neighborhood Council’s (OHNC) monthly meeting on last week, attendees voted to support a couple of requests from Mi Pueblito Restaurant, located at 964 Saratoga Street.

According to Attorney Kristen Scanlon, who presented at the meeting, the first request was to upgrade its existing beer, wine, and cordials license to include full spirits.

“For a long time, they’ve had customers asking them — especially because it’s part of their tradition and culture in particular — with their famous soups at this location to drink tequila along with their soups,” said Scanlon.

“It’s one of the reasons they’d like to utilize the upgrade that’s now available to them through the city’s new legislation creating new alcohol licenses to several different neighborhoods, including East Boston.”

Scanlon noted that the restaurant has been at the location for the past nine years and that there have been no issues.

“I think the length of time of the restaurant being open there, especially going through COVID — as we saw so many folks, unfortunately, have to shudder their businesses — is really a testament to the quality of the food they offer at this establishment and the hospitality they provide to their patrons,” said Scanlon.

Additionally, Scanlon mentioned that the establishment is looking to make its outdoor patio permanent. She emphasized that the patio would remain the same.

After the presentation, the floor was open to questions and comments from attendees.

One attendee asked about the hours of operation, which are 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., and she clarified that the license would be for 11:00 p.m.

Another attendee asked about the patio’s opening date, and Scanlon said it would remain seasonal and open from May to October.

Later, attendees offered some kind comments about the establishment, indicating they had been good neighbors.

“We’re hoping to submit an application before the city’s first initial deadline for consideration, which is December 6. So we would anticipate a hearing probably in the latter part of December or the first part of January,” said Scanlon.

“But, certainly can keep the group apprised of that hearing date and are certainly hopeful for voices of support.” For more information about the OHNC, visit its Facebook Page at