Taste Italian Kitchen adding patio seats

RIDGELAND — The Taste Italian Kitchen slated to open in the Renaissance this year will add a large outdoor seating space to their restaurant.

The restaurant is going in the building on the south end of the Renaissance where Robert St. John’s Enzo Osteria was located. This will be the Starkville-based brand’s second location.

The restaurant will undergo renovations and open in early 2025, according to John Ryckert, Taste’s director of operations.

Ridgeland Public Works Director Alan Hart presented the addition to Mayor Gene F. McGee and aldermen at their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, April 15. The item received unanimous approval on the consent agenda.

“This looks really good,” McGee said.

They received initial site plan approval in November.

St. John announced in early September that his restaurant would close. 

Enzo had been open for about two years, replacing Biaggi’s, a national chain of Italian restaurants. 

Renaissance officials said they welcome the new brand.

“Renaissance at Colony Park is excited to welcome Taste and to introduce this proven concept to this market,” a statement from the Renaissance said. “The restaurant and ownership are a perfect fit within our Renaissance restaurant lineup.”

According to Ryckert, Taste celebrates the art of Italian cooking. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and impeccable service, 

“Taste has quickly become a favorite in the Starkville area and is now expanding to bring its exceptional dining experience to Ridgeland,” Ryckert said.