Sovana Bistro, a southern Chester County favorite, has made a rousing comeback in Kennett Square after a fire devastated the dining establishment in January last year, writes Ed Williams for Main Line Today.

As soon as the word of the fire reached the public, Sovana Bistro owner Nick Farrell received more than 100 text messages from people wanting to know how they could help. He started organizing meetings with his employees to discuss demolition and plans to rebuild.

Although the pandemic stalled recovery efforts for a few months, work was soon able to proceed again.

Finally, in May this year, the eatery reopened.

The inside has been updated to a more open concept, with an S-shaped bar, wooden pub wall, and brightly colored banquettes. The dining room now offers views of the open kitchen, which is more than twice the size of the old one. Meanwhile, the patio was converted for a cozy, year-round dining experience.

The menu has not changed drastically. Most items are still made on site, including the pasta and ice cream.

“A seasonal menu allows flexibility, and our guests understand and crave the adventure of that,” said Farrell.

Read more about Sovana Bistro in Main Line Today.