A bummer on 15th Ave E where the health department has closed down a popular young food and drink pop-up after only a few weeks of operation. Public Health ordered the closure of Bolani Place, which operates inside the LoveCityLove community space, after inspections found violations including operating without a permit and failing to plan safe food handling. Inspectors also noted an immediate health hazard due to unpermitted vendors. CHS spoke to Malali Popalzai about her hopes for expanding the business into a full restaurant, highlighting the community’s growing interest in authentic Afghan cuisine. The pop-up previously occupied a corner of the LoveCityLove space, a rotating hub for artists, boutiques, and gatherings, now serving as a stepping stone toward potential redevelopment. While many Capitol Hill pop-ups operate with a scrappy vibe, King County regulations require even temporary food installations to meet strict safety standards, such as dedicated plumbing for handwashing and pre-approved equipment layouts. Health inspectors have increased their focus on unpermitted vendors, citing similar crackdowns in the Pike/Pine nightlife district and busy corners across the city. Last month, CHS reported on the May 2025 enforcement of unpermitted vendor restrictions, with Friday night’s inspection targeting the Seattle Dawgs stand set up near Cal Anderson. This same location was used by Tacos Cometa before moving to its brick-and-mortar taqueria on Broadway in March. Closures typically remain in effect until operators demonstrate compliance and receive a formal permit. The county now offers $5/month assistance to support CHS, enabling them to cover costs for hiring writers and photographers. To stay involved, subscribers can join [Patreon link] and help maintain the neighborhood’s vibrant food scene.
