Whitemarsh Planning Commission To Address Restaurant Proposal

WHITEMARSH — The township planning commission is scheduled to take up the matter of a new Mediterranean restaurant that is looking to open a location in a local shopping center.

During tomorrow’s meeting, the commission will address a zoning application by Brixmor Property Group, which owns the Whitemarsh Shopping Center, seeking a special exception to open up a new restaurant in the space.

The restaurant, named Mezeh, would be about 1,600 square feet and would constitute the third business to round out occupancy at the 8,973-square foot shopping center that was completed last year, according to township documents.

The shopping center is located on Ridge Pike near the intersection with Butler Pike.

The shopping center is zoned as CR-H Commercial Retail, which only allows restaurants by special exception, according to a letter from the township’s director of planning and zoning, Charles L. Guttenplan, addressed to the planning commission.

The letter, which was posted to the township’s website, noted that the zoning hearing for this matter will take place on Aug. 4.

Paperwork filed by Brixmor says that the applicant's proposed use for the property has satisfied all requirements for the grant of special exception under the township's zoning code. The paperwork is signed by Marc B. Kaplin, a Blue Bell attorney who represents the applicant.

According to the restaurant's website, another Mezeh location is soon expected to open in King of Prussia.

Mezeh says it offers a variety of Mediterranean fare, including bowls, wraps, pitas and pizzas. It is currently operating locations in multiple states.