Raise the Curtain, Novara Opens This Week in an Old Milton Theater [UPDATE]

An modern Italian-style restaurant is opening this Thursday next door to its sister, Abby Park. The owners are unveiling Novara, which took over the former Milton Cinema in East Milton Square, starting out serving dinner from executive chef Tony DeRienzo.

Novara (556 Adams St.) pulled DeRienzo from Abby Park, and he has drawn inspiration for the cuisine at the new restaurant from his Italian roots.

The menu features items like burrata, gorgonzola tortellini, pancetta-wrapped chicken, king crab scampi, homemade pasta dishes like butternut squash carbonara, plus brick-oven pizzas and salads.

Novara also has a varied wine list, an assortment of craft beers, and craft cocktails.

The restaurant was built in a vacant movie theater and historic landmark in East Milton Square. A family-owned real estate firm had purchased the space and wanted to bring in a restaurant to revitalize the square, as previously reported. Jordan Knight, of New Kids on the Block, is an investor in Novara and has shared his excitement for the opening on Twitter:

incredible gathering last night to celebrate Miltons latest and greatest attraction! Novara restaurant! https://t.co/BkUjPTh7wJ

— Jordan Knight (@jordanknight) January 4, 2016

Designer Steve Todisco (who also did Abby Park and Davio's) worked to retain elements of the grandiose space. The 5,500-square-foot restaurant plays up the 23-foot theater ceilings, with an island bar at the center of the space, a visible kitchen, a courtyard, and a drop-down projection screen. A wine room onsite will be available for private parties.

Update: Novara's website now indicates the restaurant will open for dinner on Thursday, January 7 at 4 p.m.