Il Vesuvio Pizzeria in Bayside is saying ciao to its small location and doubling in size just a few doors down on Bell Boulevard.
Owners are moving the restaurant to 39-28 Bell Blvd., the site of former hibachi steakhouse and sushi bar Okinawa, and expanding it to include a bar, restaurant and pizzeria.
Pat Fabiano, an owner of the restaurant, also said they are also changing the name from Il Vesuvio to Il Borgo to reflect the new start for the business. Il Borgo is expected to open in about a month and a half.
Fabiano purchased Il Vesuvio about a decade ago. The restaurateur also owns Organico in Port Washington, which is a formal sit-down organic Italian restaurant that has received high ratings.
Il Borgo will be less formal, and Fabiano envisions a sit-down eatery on Bell Boulevard where everyday families and friends can gather.
“I feel that people need that option of an easygoing place and to not be scared because they see tablecloth,” he said. “I want people to walk in with their regular T-shirts.”
The new restaurant will have an “industrial look,” with brick, metal and wood features. The expansion will allow for about 120 people, and there will be a party room. The six-person staff will more than double as well.
Fabiano said there will be a grand opening party for Il Borgo.
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