The newest addition to Merino Mill is almost here. Florence Wine & Beer Garden will officially open its doors at 500 S. Main Street on Monday, September 22.

I first met Michal Bay, the owner of Merino Mill, back in 2017 when I did some work for him. At the time, he had just opened Alino Pizzeria which quickly became a Mooresville favorite. Since then, I’ve watched him grow his vision with Picasso’s, and Barcelona Burger both of which have been both very successful and genuinely good. Knowing his track record, I have no doubt Florence Wine & Beer Garden will be the same.

The new restaurant spans 40,000 square feet and will feature traditional Italian cuisine paired with wines from Italy, France, and Spain. Guests can look forward to homemade pastas, chicken dishes, fresh fish, veal, beef, and even wagyu steak which Michal promises is the best you’ll find in Mooresville.

Florence will be located in the freestanding building at the rear of the Merino Mill parking lot, just behind Alino’s. Over the past two years, Michal has overseen a complete restoration of the century-old space that once powered the mill. The renovation highlights soaring 50-foot ceilings inside and an expansive outdoor dining area complete with a pond and two fountains which originally served to cool the mill’s generator.