One of the St. Louis region’s standout fast-casual spots is slated to close later this month. Porano (13323 Manchester)—the Italian-inspired concept from Niche Food Group that’s known for its pasta, salads, bowls, and pizzas—will close March 31.
“I really feel like it’s not the location or the concept—I love the concept,” says Niche Food Group owner Gerard Craft. “It’s just that after almost two years in Des Peres, we realized we don’t have the desire to grow this into the big business we thought we did. The last two years have brought some clarity regarding what we’re willing to invest in, not just money-wise but in time and energy, and one of those things is not growing a fast-casual chain,” which he acknowledges is a highly competitive area. “And I don’t want to tie Porano’s shortcomings to the economy; it’s just that the fast-casual market is tough.”
The Menu
Porano was designed as a flexible, fast-casual concept rooted in Italian hospitality and offering something for everyone. The menu centered on four categories—salads, pasta and grain bowls, pizzas, and a customizable build-your-own option, in which guests chose a base (house-made pasta, rice, farro, or greens) and add sauces or dressings, proteins, and toppings.
Familiar favorites such as Chopped Chicken Salad, Alfredo e Pepe Bowl, and Detroit-style pizza anchored the offerings, while the customization element appealed to families and groups with varied tastes. One memorable offering was a crowd-pleasing sharable dubbed “The Lawn Chair,” four Detroit-style pizzas nestled in an easy-to-carry box, which fit perfectly on the seat of a lawn chair.
The Atmosphere
The Des Peres location reflected an equally approachable ethos through its design. The 3,200-square-foot space featured vibrant, visually driven design elements, including murals that blended Italian landmarks with St. Louis imagery. With ample parking in a suburban setting near major retailers in a busy center, Craft’s goal was to connect the place that inspired this eatery—the real-life town of Porano, where life moves at a slow, relaxed pace—with the modern world.
The Background
Porano originally operated downtown from 2016–2018, before being put on pause. Craft and the Niche Food Group later revisited the concept, testing its return through a series of pop-ups in early 2024, before opening the Des Peres location in July of that year. The relaunch was part of a broader effort to refine and reintroduce the brand to a new audience. Part of the plan was to open additional locations. Despite all efforts, however, the Des Peres restaurant will close at the end of the month.
“Niche Food Group has some exceptional restaurants,” adds Craft. “Brasserie has never been stronger; our other places have been busier as well. Our plan is to introduce some meaningful surprises in the near future, but don’t look for us to open anything in the next year. But never count out the possibility of seeing a new Brasserie or Pastaria.”
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