Students at Arizona State University are about to have a new Italian option next year, as North Italia has announced a new location coming to Tempe at the corner of University Drive and Rural Road.
The company’s fifth Arizona location is a part of the upcoming development called The Novus Innovation Corridor, led by developers Catellus Development Corp., according to Phoenix Business Journal. The restaurant will join two other Sam Concept Restaurants coming to the area: Blanco Taco Cocina + Cantina and Flower Child. The new 275,000-square-foot shopping, dining, and entertainment district will hopefully begin construction by the end of the year, with all three restaurants opening in the second half of 2024.
While North Italia has 33 locations across 14 states, the company only has locations in Gilbert, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson. The new restaurant will be the primary Italian restaurant in the area, which has plenty more renovations planned. Catellus is also working on The Novus Place, which includes a 318-unit apartment complex called The Piedmont, a 260-key, dual-branded Hyatt House and Hyatt Place, and a 160,000-square-foot office building called 777 Tower, according to the Business Journal. A new 160,000-square-foot office building called 700 Novus Place is also ready for tenant commitment.
When the new restaurant opens next year, customers can expect plenty of Italian classics from sides to entrees. Small plates such as prosciutto bruschetta, calamari, and Italian meatballs will start the meal, while salads, pizza, sandwiches, and pasta will serve as the main course. North Italia also offers an expansive wine and cocktail list to compliment the menu, including plenty of local beers. On the weekends, the restaurant offers a special brunch menu with a unique breakfast menu.
