Huntsville, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Floriana, a renowned family-owned Italian restaurant, will open its third location in Huntsville’s MidCity District in 2026. Known for its authentic northern Italian cuisine, the restaurant will offer a robust menu, including new dishes and a curated wine selection. The two-story space will reflect the architectural style of New Orleans’ Warehouse District, promising to enhance Huntsville’s culinary scene. Founded in 1979, Floriana has received accolades for its commitment to quality and hospitality.
Huntsville to Welcome Floriana, a Family-Owned Italian Restaurant, in 2026
Floriana, a family-owned Italian restaurant, announced plans to open a new location in Huntsville’s MidCity District in 2026. This development marks the restaurant’s third location, joining its established sites in Washington, D.C., and Wilmington, N.C. Founded in 1979 by Floriana Nestore, the restaurant is renowned for its authentic northern Italian cuisine and commitment to quality and hospitality.
The Huntsville location will feature a robust menu, highlighting best-loved dishes alongside new offerings such as a raw bar, featured burgers, and wood-fired oven pizzas. Guests can also look forward to a curated wine cellar and an innovative craft cocktail program designed to enhance their dining experience.
The new restaurant will occupy an 8,000-square-foot, two-story space located at the NOLA Building, positioned at the intersection of MidCity Drive and Stax Street. The architectural design, crafted by local firm Matheny Goldman, draws inspiration from New Orleans’ Warehouse District, featuring a brick façade complemented by a wraparound balcony.
Currently, Jamie Branda and Dino Tapper, son of the founder, are overseeing the restaurant’s operations. Floriana has received recognition for its excellence, including OpenTable’s 2024 Diner’s Choice Award, which underscores its dedication to providing outstanding food and service.
The restaurant aims to foster a warm, community-focused atmosphere within Huntsville’s culinary scene. According to RCP Companies, the developer of MidCity District, Floriana’s arrival signals the area’s increasing reputation as a destination for exceptional dining experiences.
Details regarding the grand opening and any special events are anticipated to be announced as the opening date in 2026 approaches.
Additional Information about Floriana
– Year Established: 1979
– Existing Locations: Washington, D.C., and Wilmington, N.C.
– Menu Highlights: Scratch-made gnocchi, ravioli, tortelloni, famous lasagna, raw bar, featured burgers, wood-fired oven pizzas.
– Awards: OpenTable’s 2024 Diner’s Choice Award
– Property Details: 8,000 square feet, two stories, NOLA Building, MidCity District.
– Architectural Features: Brick façade, wraparound balcony.
Key Features of the Huntsville Floriana Location
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1979 |
| Number of Locations | 3 (including Huntsville) |
| Menu Offerings | Northern Italian cuisine, raw bar, burgers, wood-fired pizzas |
| Building Size | 8,000 square feet |
| Design Inspiration | New Orleans’ Warehouse District |
| Architectural Firm | Matheny Goldman |
| Awards | OpenTable’s 2024 Diner’s Choice Award |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Floriana set to open in Huntsville?
Floriana is set to open in 2026.
Where will the new Floriana location be situated?
The restaurant will occupy an 8,000-square-foot, two-story space at the NOLA Building, located at the intersection of MidCity Drive and Stax Street.
What type of cuisine does Floriana offer?
Floriana offers authentic northern Italian cuisine.
What is notable about Floriana’s menu?
Notable menu items include scratch-made gnocchi, ravioli, tortelloni, famous lasagna, a raw bar, featured burgers, and wood-fired oven pizzas.
Is Floriana recognized for its dining experience?
Yes, Floriana has received OpenTable’s 2024 Diner’s Choice Award.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
West End Grill in Huntsville Receives Failing Health Score
Floriana Italian Restaurant to Expand to MidCity Huntsville
Additional Resources
- Rocket City Now
- Wikipedia: Huntsville, Alabama
- Axios
- Google Search: Floriana Italian restaurant Huntsville
- AL.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Italian cuisine
- 256 Today
- Google News: Floriana restaurant Huntsville
- Hville Blast
- WAAY TV
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
