Beloved Cannella’s Italian Restaurant Returns to Sugar House: A Flavorful Comeback
SALT LAKE CITY – Everyone loves a good comeback story—especially when it involves rich family history and cherished recipes. After a 42-year run, Cannella’s Italian Restaurant, a favorite in the Sugar House neighborhood, last served its loyal clientele in 2000. Fast forward nearly five years, and this iconic eatery has made a triumphant return, albeit in a new and exciting form!
The Journey Back: Embracing Resilience
The closure of Cannella’s in the summer of 2000 was a significant loss for the community, intensified by the challenges posed by the pandemic. “When the restaurant business is in your blood, it’s in your blood,” reflects Joey Cannella, the restaurant’s passionate owner. The Cannella legacy began in 1978, when Joey’s parents opened the original establishment. He and his brother grew up among the laughter and the aromas that filled the family restaurant, making it difficult to imagine life without it.
“COVID made us all stop and reflect,” Joey acknowledged wistfully, noting that this pause allowed the family to rethink their direction and future.
A New Home: Sugar House Station
The next chapter for Cannella’s unfolds at Sugar House Station, an innovative food and bar hall located in a historic post office building that dates back to 1939. This vibrant space is designed to foster community gatherings, featuring five restaurants, five bars, and a cozy coffee shop, all spotlighting local vendors.
Scott Evans, the visionary behind the Pago Restaurant Group, conceived the food hall concept during his travels across Europe. His collaboration with Joey to relaunch Cannella’s at its original location didn’t materialize as planned, but the idea of bringing Cannella’s legacy into this bustling venue felt serendipitous.
“When this came together, Cannella’s was one of our first choices,” Evans noted. “We wanted to continue the family’s legacy, sharing their recipes and history with a new generation.”
A Warm Welcome Back
Although Cannella’s reopened just a month ago, the familiar faces of loyal customers are already streaming back. “We used to go probably once a week to Cannella’s. I was so sad when it closed, but I’m thrilled to see it back!” exclaimed Allison Varner, a longtime fan.
Joey, while basking in the warmth of their return, remains open to the future. “I won’t rule out opening another full-service restaurant one day, but for now, I just want to enjoy this moment.”
“It’s a good thing, it feels good. It feels like a comeback!”
Conclusion: A Community Legacy Rediscovered
Cannella’s grand return to Sugar House is more than just a restaurant reopening—it’s a heartfelt revival of cherished memories and shared meals. For long-time patrons and new faces alike, this beloved family eatery is set to rekindle the spirit of community with every delicious bite.
Join us in celebrating this culinary comeback! Check out Cannella’s at Sugar House Station and indulge in a taste of history that promises to delight all who enter.
