A new culinary option is coming to 158 Center Street after the Zoning Board of Appeals cleared the way for "Uncommon Cafe" to occupy a space formerly home to a quilt shop and a toy train business. Petitioner Tyler Doctor, who operates the catering company Flavor Profile with his wife, presented the concept as a high-end "grab-and-go" destination focused on meal prep, sandwiches, and coffee. During the hearing, Doctor explained that the business model relies on food prepared at their existing Kingston catering facility, eliminating the need for major renovations in Pembroke.

Uncommon Cafe is a small grab-and-go kind of concept, Doctor told the board. One thing to note is that we do our prep in our catering facility, which is in Kingston. So, we'll be bringing everything in in the morning. So, there's really no kitchen installation. While the primary focus is on takeout, Member David Lee inquired about the interior layout, asking, You do have some seating though, right? Doctor confirmed the cafe would accommodate approximately 18 patrons, with seating split between a bar area and two tables.

The conversation turned toward the property’s location at a busy intersection, with Vice Chair Christopher McGrail raising concerns about the driveway's proximity to the traffic lights. McGrail noted that while previous tenants were lower-volume retail shops, a cafe might create more frequent turn-movements. My only question was not so much about the restaurant itself, but the access to it because the driveway in and out is right on the traffic lights there, McGrail said. The more business you generate, the more traffic we're going to have there. He characterized the remark as an observation rather than a formal objection to the project.

Member Ryan MacDonald spoke in favor of the application, emphasizing the importance of supporting local entrepreneurship in established commercial spaces. It's been an operable business for longer than I've been in town, which is near about seven years, MacDonald said. In my mind, who would I be to tell you no, you can't try to earn a living? Following the discussion, the board moved to finalize the application. Motion Made by C. McGrail to move to a vote for Case 12-25. Motion Passed (3-0-0). Shortly after, the board officially authorized the business to proceed. Motion Made by C. McGrail to grant the special permit. Motion Passed (3-0-0).

In other business, the board addressed administrative tasks, including the review of past records. Motion Made by C. McGrail to accept the meeting minutes from Monday, November 17, 2025 and as well as the meeting minutes from Monday, December 15, 2025. Motion Passed (3-0-0).