A popular Italian restaurant in Boynton Beach has received approval to build a larger establishment nearly twice its current size. Josie's Ristorante plans to open the new location within six to eight months while keeping its existing site operational. The expansion includes enhanced outdoor dining and an Italian market.
Josie's Ristorante, located near the waterfront in Boynton Beach, Florida, secured approval from city commissioners on February 10 to construct a new building about 1.5 miles south of its current spot at the southeast corner of Woolbright Road and Federal Highway.
The existing 3,000-square-foot rented space will continue serving pizza, steak, pasta, gelato, and live music until the new 5,500-square-foot restaurant at 3047 North Federal Highway opens, expected in six to eight months, according to chef Mark Millitelo. The site, previously vacant with grass, weeds, and trees, was rezoned from residential to commercial to allow the project.
The new design, proposed by Miami-based Bigtime Design Studios, aims for a 1920s-style art deco lounge aesthetic. It will feature expanded outdoor dining, a separate takeout area from the main entrance, and an Italian market offering freshly baked bread, pizzas, cakes, and other Italian-style cuisine.
"It's going to be exciting," Millitelo said.
This expansion represents a significant upgrade for the restaurant, which hopes to open before the end of the year while maintaining continuity at the original location.