An Italian Restaurant and Gelateria Lands in the Heart of Oakhurst Soon

Saba returns to its former home in Oakhurst as Paolino Italian Restaurant and Gelateria soon, Decaturish reports. The renamed restaurant, owned by Shane Mixon, takes over the Son of a Bear Korean tavern space, which closed in September. It includes a gelato and dessert shop.

Mixon recently closed his pasta and sandwich restaurant Saba after relocating it from Oakhurst to Emory Village three years ago. He told Decaturish the building is “old” and has not been properly maintained. This lead to problems at the restaurant, making it “impossible to remain” there.

As for Paolino’s menu, it is apparently similar to Saba but with a greater focus on classic Italian dishes and pastas. Think freshly made pastas used to create old school Italian favorites like fettuccine Alfredo, linguine and clam sauce, and lasagna, along with lobster ravioli and eggplant pappardelle.

Paolino could open as early as this weekend. The restaurant is currently awaiting its liquor license.

Earlier this week, Mixon told Emory University newspaper the Emory Wheel that he “hopes” Saba can reopen in the Emory area at some point.

Eater Atlanta reached out for a firm opening date and more details on Paolino. Check back for updates.

Paolino

350 Mead Road, Decatur. paolinoitaliano.com

• Son of a Bear Korean Tavern Closes in Oakhurst [EATL]
• Oakhurst Loses a Chinese Restaurant but Gains a Korean Tavern Tonight [EATL]