Portofino’s Ristorante Italiano e Pizzeria is getting ready to introduce a new model for the residents of Uptown, opening a new “express” site at 101 N. Tyron St.
The company’s fifth location will move into the ground level of the One Independence Center, which was recently renovated by Crescent Communities LLC, according to the Charlotte Observer. Portofino’s co-owner Josh Coppola expects the new 2,500-square-foot restaurant will open in Spring 2024. This new “express” model will have both dine-in and grab-and-go services, offering classics such as pizza, pasta, and sandwiches.
“We have been looking to add an Uptown location for almost two decades, but we didn’t find the right opportunity until now,” Coppola tells the Charlotte Observer.
Portofino’s first opened on Eastway Drive in Charlotte in July of 1996 and eventually expanded to three other locations across the Charlotte area. All restaurants are full-service restaurants with alcohol and dessert options. The new express version will offer a similar experience, except customers in a hurry can order select items to go. The new Portofino’s is the first of many new businesses coming to the area.
“This is just the beginning of the revitalization of this entire block of Tryon Street, from 5th Street to Trade, with fresh concepts and welcoming spaces for Uptown workers, locals, and tourists alike,” Charles Thrift, who represented Crescent Communities in the lease, tells the Charlotte Observer.
