Newport Restaurant Group to Welcome 'Avvio Ristorante' in former Papa Razzi Location

Newport Restaurant Group, a division of Newport Harbor Corporation, an employee-owned hospitality company, is pleased to announce Avvio, a new restaurant in the former Papa Razzi space in Garden City, Cranston. Avvio will join the Newport Restaurant Group collection as the ninth location in Rhode Island and will embody the essence of everyday Italian dining; a place where friends and family gather, share laughs and celebrate milestones. Papa Razzi will be closed for business beginning on Sunday, January 31st and Avvio will open as a classic Italian eatery in spring 2016.

“When Newport Harbor Corporation purchased seven Papa Razzi restaurants in 2012, it gave us the opportunity to grow our footprint into Massachusetts,” said Paul O’Reilly, CEO and President of Newport Harbor Corporation. “The Cranston location has been successful, but with the growth and expansion of Garden City, we saw an opportunity to refresh the space and enhance its offerings to align with Newport Restaurant Group’s culinary philosophy. These changes will allow us to add Avvio to the Newport Restaurant Group portfolio and to provide guests in the West Bay and statewide the experience they have come to expect from our restaurants and with a similar price point to Papa Razzi.”

Chef Greg Coccio, former Executive Chef at Papa Razzi will remain in this role at Avvio. His efforts will be complemented by Chef Kevin DiLibero, Director of Culinary Arts. Both have been cooking within Newport Restaurant Group for many years and share a passion for and heritage of Italian cooking.

As always, the Newport Restaurant Group’s focus on simple ingredients will be on display, sourced locally and directly from Italy. Prepared with distinct, yet traditional cooking techniques, Avvio’s menu will feature inspired Italian classic dishes along with Neapolitan pizzas and a wood-fired grill.

The culinary team will be augmented by Chef Casey Riley who serves as Chief Operating Officer and oversees the culinary development of each Newport Restaurant Group property. Chef Riley’s extended familial roots are in Cranston and this opening is especially personal and special as Casey’s appreciation of Italian cooking was first nurtured through the traditions passed on to him via the family table.

During the closure, Papa Razzi gift cards will be accepted at all Papa Razzi locations in Massachusetts, as well as at Newport Restaurant Group properties Waterman Grille and Hemenway’s, in nearby Providence. Visit www.paparazzitrattoria.com or www.avvioristorante.com for additional details.

About Newport Restaurant Group

The Newport Restaurant Group creates memorable experiences for guests by blending thoughtful food with world-class hospitality in striking locations. There’s a palpable energy at every restaurant; each environment fosters strong bonds among its team members, sparks a genuine connection with guests, and celebrates a love of food. As one of the largest supporters of local food in the state, Newport Restaurant Group strives to use the highest-quality ingredients available. The talented chefs craft menus based on in-season produce and sustainable farming and fishing methods. Each restaurant is a unique reflection of its spectacular surroundings, and the team is dedicated to making every experience warm and memorable for both loyal guests and first-time visitors. The result is a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that encourages laughter, conversation, relaxation and celebration. Newport Restaurant Group’s award-winning portfolio of restaurants includes Castle Hill Inn, The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar, 22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille, Boat House, Hemenway’s, Waterman Grille, Trio, and Smoke House.

Newport Restaurant Group is operated by Newport Harbor Corporation, an employee-owned (ESOP) hospitality corporation based in Newport, RI. For more information on Newport Harbor Corporation, please visit www.newportharbor.com. For more information about Newport Restaurant Group, please visit www.newportrestaurantgroup.com.