In a nod to the difficult economic times for downtown businesses, the Watsonville Planning Commission approved El Alteño restaurant’s request to allow the business to stay open until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

The restaurant and bar at 323 Main St., operated by Jesus and Maria Ortiz in a building owned by Stella Romo, is the second such establishment to be allowed a 1 a.m. closing. Jalisco Restaurant, owned and operated by Romo, was granted a similar request last month.

After Tuesday night’s planning commission meeting held inside the Civic Plaza building, Jesus Ortiz said business has been terrible for more than a year and the extended hours, which also allow for live entertainment, will allow more parties and events to occur, which he desperately needs.

For the complete article see the 11-05-2009 issue.

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