Another longstanding restaurant is retiring. According to recent social media posts, Belle Meade’s authentic Italian restaurant Porta Via Ristorante will shutter its doors after 15 years in business. Its last day at 21 White Bridge Rd, Suite 104 was April 7.
Although it’s a huge loss to have Tennessee’s only restaurant recognized by Naples-based L’Associazone Verace Pizza Napoletana close so suddenly, a new concept by chef Rosario De Luca will replace Porta Via, set to open at the same location in the coming months. A definitive timeline along with details about the new concept has not yet been solidified, though it’s likely to be Italian-influenced and pay homage to De Luca’s Roman heritage. Social media announcements note the new concept is still developing.
“I am certainly sad to be saying goodbye to Porta Via and our valued guests but also excited to be moving on to the next phase of life, which I expect to be the best. From the bottom of my heart, I wish all our loyal guests, friends, and the entire Porta Via family the very best. We sincerely hope that you will support Chef Rosario and his team at his developing new concept,” Porta Via’s owner Mehrdad Alviri stated on Facebook and on Porta Via’s website.
Porta Via offered customers a wide array of Italian dishes such as wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, Lobster Ravioli, Capellini al Pomodoro, Shrimp Scampi, house-made gelato, fine wines, and craft cocktails. The restaurant often hosted live jazz and piano nights as well as happy hours with discounted wines.
Customers can stay tuned for updates regarding Porta Via’s replacement concept on its Facebook page.
