Papa Razzi Under New Ownership

Papa Razzi is now in the hands of one of the states most prominent restauranteurs.

Newport Harbor Corporation, which operates 22 Bowens in Newport and Trio in Narragansett, announced it has acquired seven Papa Razzi restaurants in Rhode Island and Massachusetts in a release.

“We are so pleased to announce this targeted expansion of our company,” said Paul O’Reilly, Chief Executive Officer, Newport Harbor Corporation.  “The Papa Razzi brand aligns with our organization’s strategic plan for expansion based on the concept, culinary philosophy, and the geographic market served.”

NHC bought the restaurants from Charles Sarkis, founder of the Back Bay Restaurant Group. That company owned and operated Abe & Louie's, Atlantic Fish Company and Joe's American bar and Grill among others until 2011.

“Papa Razzi is a dynamic addition to our hospitality portfolio,” said Ken Cusson, Director of Business Development at Newport Harbor Corporation.  “We are excited to expand into the Boston market, bringing more than 30 years of expertise in hospitality to an already strong brand.  We are looking forward to welcoming the existing staff to the NHC family and to bringing the Papa Razzi concept to the next level of distinction.”

NHC pledged to keep and "enrich" Papa Razzi's menu, which is based on "classic Italian preparations based on fresh ingredients and scratch cooking."