Another Italian Restaurant Proposed for Downtown

In what seems to be a summer of Italian restaurants, another one has been proposed for downtown Millburn.

Driola LLC of New Providence has proposed to open La Pergola at 120 Essex St., which was once a bridal salon near the corner of Essex and Lackawanna Place. The space has been vacant for some time.

The proposal is going to the Planning Board for review at its next meeting on Aug. 18 at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall. The restaurant would have 80 seats, according to the plans filed at Town Hall, and the owners are seeking a variance for parking.

Several Italian restaurants have opened downtown in recent months, including Osteria Mediterrania and Cafe Luna. La Campagna has changed hands and will stay an Italian restaurant with a new name, Cara Mia. It could re-open its doors soon.

The landscape of downtown Millburn includes a number of Italian restaurants including Basilico, La Cucina Ristorante & Seafood Grill, La Strada, Trattoria Gian Marco and Semolina.