North Italia held a soft opening over the weekend to prepare for its grand opening on Wednesday at its new McEwen Northside location in Franklin. The Cool Springs spot is the California-based Italian restaurant’s second Tennessee location, adding to the other in Nashville. The chain is owned by The Cheesecake Factory.  

The restaurant serves up house-made pasta, crispy pizzas, hearty sandwiches and salads and has gluten-free and vegan options. During the soft opening, guests enjoyed an appetizer to share, an entre and desert to share. North Italia’s newest location is an open concept with outdoor eating and drinking options. An extensive bar along with a wine list is available.