This story was initially published March 22 and updated March 26 with new open and close times.
ITHACA, N.Y. — A new restaurant promising family style meals, hearty breakfasts, fresh soups and baked goods is coming to the Ithaca Commons.
The Downtown Ithaca Alliance announced Thursday that The Commons Kitchen will open April 1 at 124 E. State St. The restaurant will take over the former Due Amici space, nestled between Petrune and Julie A. Stone Salon.
The Commons Kitchen is owned by Nadina Azzouay, longtime home cook and wife of Casablanca Pizzeria owner Adil Griguihi.
“With all of the development and growth that is now happening on the Commons, this is the perfect time to open this restaurant here…We’re going to do well because we’re going to serve delicious meals that are unlike any other that you’ll find downtown,” Azzouay said in a news release.
The restaurant will offer breakfast staples like omelets and pancakes, as well as homemade soups and sandwich lunch specials, Chicago-style pizza and a variety of dinner choices including vegan and gluten-free dishes. The Commons Kitchen will also offer freshly prepared baked goods such as bread, cupcakes and muffins. Customized meals will be available on request, too.
“It seems many people are often too busy to cook healthy, home-cooked meals. When they eat here, they’ll receive a homemade meal that is prepared using fresh ingredients, no canned foods. The meals will be very healthy and complete meals offered very affordable prices,” Azzouay said.
Gary Ferguson, executive director of the Downtown Ithaca Alliance, said in a news release that The Commons Kitchen will be a “wonderful addition to our diverse restaurant scene.”
Dine-in, take-out, delivery and catering services will be available. The space will also be available to rent for private parties.
According to their website, the Commons Kitchen is now open from 11 a.m. to midnight Monday through Friday, noon to midnight on Saturday and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday.
Featured image: The Commons Kitchen being renovated March 22. Kelsey O’Connor/Ithaca Voice