The sign of a healthy shopping center is when spaces don’t stay empty long and the replacement stores coming in are relatively new. Such is the situation with the above restaurant, opening in Friendly Center in the former location of the U.S. post office. The NORTH Italia Restaurant is owned by the Cheesecake Factory, which they acquired in 2019. The first location opened in Scottsdale, Arizona in 2002, and currently, there are 48 locations in the U.S.

To further orient you, this photo was taken from Whole Foods parking lot near Chick-Fil-A. The company literature describes the restaurant as upscale, casual dining with a modern, yet neighborhood feel. While some many menu items are standard, they like to include “unique menu items tailored to local markets.” It is always fun to try a new restaurant. NORTH Italia joins Bravo! Italian Kitchen as an Italian dining experience in Friendly Center.

We enjoyed watching the workers yesterday afternoon. Construction is progressing quickly!

Happy Tuesday!