Pax Romana opened in February 2016 only to close in February 2017 due to issues with its landlord. Now, the partners behind this Italian restaurant are getting ready for their second act -- five doors down from their original location.
"We had built a great following, especially in White Plains, and wanted our new location to be in the same area," explained Paul Russo, one of the three owners.
And while the opening is still up in the air -- they're in the midst of construction so it's difficult to determine an exact date -- they'd love to be serving customers by the end of January. "That may be ambitious," he said.
What diners can expect when Pax Romana starts serving its Italian specialities: a new level of transparency.
"Every aspect of the space is visible," said Russo.
"From the kitchen and pasta bar in the dining room and even the prep rooms and storage. You'll be able to see the operation of a restaurant from all angles."
Pizza will also be a bigger part of the operation, with a specific type of flour imported from Rome. "We are fortunate to have it directly imported for us," said Russo. "We are the first ones on the East Coast to have it."
As for pasta, not only will it be homemade, there will be "a beautiful extruder out in the open, bringing the dining experience and weekly pasta class experience to a new level," according to Russo.
Expect, too, a private dining room in the basement with seating up to 25. Russo said it will be the first speakeasy style private room in the county.
"You'll have to walk by prep rooms and storage, down a 'wine cellar' to a hidden door that opens into the room itself," he said.
Pax Romana is at 171 East Post Road; follow their Facebook progress here.
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