A new Italian dining destination is headed to Nashville, with Prato, a critically acclaimed restaurant from Winter Park, Florida, preparing to open in the Green Hills neighborhood in spring 2027. Aaron Cook, Vice President of Operations for Park Lights Hospitality, confirmed the spring opening timeline to WhatNow Nashville during a November 9 phone conversation. The company initially announced the expansion in a November 5 press release. An exact street address has not yet been disclosed.
Prato has operated for 15 years, building a following in Central Florida for its contemporary interpretations of Italian classics, seasonal ingredients and energetic dining atmosphere. According to the release, the restaurant has also earned recognition from the MICHELIN Guide, establishing a reputation that extends beyond its Winter Park home market.
CEO Scott Bowman said Nashville was among the company’s preferred markets as it considered expanding the concept beyond Florida. After visiting Green Hills and the surrounding communities, the hospitality group identified the area as a good fit for the restaurant’s next location. Bowman described the expansion as a long-term commitment, with the company hoping to become part of the neighborhood’s dining community.
Guests can expect the Nashville restaurant to follow the design direction of the original Winter Park location. According to the press release, the interior will incorporate rich textures, brick, warm wood finishes and carefully considered lighting. A signature communal bar will also feature in the restaurant’s design.
The dining concept is intended to accommodate different occasions, from casual lunches and after-work drinks to date nights, celebrations and dinners with friends. Its hospitality-focused approach is central to the brand’s identity, with Bowman emphasizing the importance of delivering a consistent experience across its growing portfolio.
The Nashville opening is part of a broader national expansion for Park Lights Hospitality. Prato is also preparing to open in Bethesda, Maryland, while the company is in the final stages of lease negotiations in several other markets. The group has indicated that additional locations could follow as it continues its selective growth strategy.
Prato’s Green Hills restaurant is targeting a spring 2027 debut. For updates and further opening announcements, guests can visit pratoitalian.com or follow the restaurant on Instagram.
