The Alexandria Planning Commission on Tuesday unanimously recommended approval of restaurant owner Mike Anderson’s special use permit to open Pork Barrel BBQ in Del Ray.

The approval comes after public concern that the future Mt. Vernon Avenue restaurant’s wood smoker would negatively effect the area’s air quality and that its requested late-night hours would upset the family vibe of the burgeoning neighborhood.

Anderson made several amendments to his application, including earlier closing times and a commitment to a different wood smoker, before finalizing it.

The Del Ray Citizens Association will vote on whether the restaurant is appropriate for the neighborhood on May 10. The decision doesn’t carry any legal weight but Anderson said their blessing is paramount to the long-term sustainability of his business and the neighborhood.