Boston Mayor Marty Walsh is siding with North End residents and businesses, telling Starbucks they should withdraw plans to open in the historic neighborhood. The brouhaha has been percolating for months. Residents and business owners teamed up against the plan to open a Starbucks on the corner of historic Hanover Street.

"After hearing the concerns from residents about sustaining the culture and historic nature of the North End, I encouraged the applicant to withdraw the proposal to locate a Starbucks at the entrance to the North End," Walsh said. "Our community process works best when we communicate effectively and work together."