Paisan’s Italian restaurant in Madison is gearing up for a comeback, eyeing the basement wine cellar at its sister establishment, Porta Bella, for a potential reopening, according to the Wisconsin State Journal. Co-owner Wally Borowski, however, remains uncertain about the exact timing of the restaurant’s revival.
The restaurant faced a tumultuous situation beginning in September 2021 when reports surfaced about the deteriorating condition of the 12-story building it called home at 131 W. Wilson St. Despite repeated warnings regarding necessary repairs, the building owners reportedly ignored the issue, leading to three closures of Paisan’s. The eatery did manage to reopen twice.
In response to the challenges, Paisan’s owners initiated legal action against their landlord, who contested the allegations, resulting in a settlement whose terms remain confidential.
Porta Bella, located at 425 N. Frances St., dates back to about 1920 and expanded in the mid-1970s. A banquet room was added approximately 12 years ago, matching the size of the Porta Bella dining area and accommodating around 180 guests.
The 4,000-square-foot Porta Bella basement, dormant for about a year, can comfortably seat approximately 125 patrons. It was previously used for private events, and Borowski sees its revival as a worthwhile investment given their property ownership.
