Tampa Bay Rays head coach Joe Maddon is part of a group that's opening a new, Italian-inspired restaurant to be called Ava in South Tampa, the Tampa Tribune reports.
Maddon has partnered with his friend and 717 South owner, Michael Stewart, as part of the group that will open Ava, located directly across Howard Avenue from 717 South in the Post SoHo apartments which are now under construction, the Tribune reports.
If all goes according to plan, Ava could be the first of a string of restaurants they hope to open under the name throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond. Maddon and company hope to open Ava in May 2014 according to the Tribune.
Meaning "breath of life" in Italian, Ava will specialize in "Inspired Italian" cuisine in a modern location that will take up about 4,600 square feet of interior space and 1,000 square feet of patio space at 718 South Howard Ave in South Tampa. Entrees will be priced in the $15 to $25 range and feature farm-to-table ingredients, house-made pastas, a variety of Charcuterie options and Neapolitan-style pizza.
As a self-proclaimed wine aficionado, Maddon will oversee the large wine selection at Ava, which will be joined by an Italian cocktail program the Tribune reports.
We'll keep you updated as more news arises Ava in South Tampa.
