A local family-owned Italian eatery is bringing its wood-fired comfort cuisine to Reading.
Toscana Forno is opening its second location in the former site of Betucci’s at 45 Walkers Brook Drive, reports the Reading Recap.
The Perrina family—Reading natives and alumni of Reading Memorial High School—currently operates three thriving restaurants under their “Toscana” brand: the original Toscana Forno in South Peabody, Toscana’s Ristorante in West Peabody, and Toscana Bar Italiano in Beverly.
Earlier this year, the Reading Select Board unanimously approved an all-alcohol restaurant liquor license for Reading Forno, LLC. Brothers and co-owners Angelo and Lucio Perrina appeared before the Board, assuring officials that Lucio would be on-site at least 40 hours per week and that all alcohol service staff would be TIPS-certified.
The new 6,770-square-foot location will feature 200 indoor seats and about 30 outdoor seats on its 945-square-foot seasonal patio, Angelo told What Now Boston.
The restaurant will include a full-service 30-seat bar and a menu showcasing Toscana Forno’s rustic Italian specialties, including brick-oven pizzas, fresh pasta, and hearty antipasti. The Perrinas also hope to offer Sunday brunch by the spring or summer, pending town approvals.
Renovations are set to begin immediately, with a projected opening of mid- to late-February 2026. Once it debuts, Toscana Forno is expected to employ 50-60 people and contribute to Reading’s meals tax revenue.
