New Italian restaurant will replace Sacramento-area barbecue joint. Here’s what to know

A new Italian restaurant is coming to Folsom with hopes of attracting a new crowd to the downtown area.

Fiori is slated to open this fall at 614 Sutter St., formerly home to J. Wild’s barbecue restaurant. That business, known for its smoked meats, officially closed its doors on Aug. 13.

One of the partners behind Fiori, Salim Elmahmoud, said everything is in motion for the new operation. He and his partners have transferred the liquor license from the former business and will begin renovating the space.

“We’re excited to bring some zest to the area,” Elmahmoud said.

Elmahmoud and his team are behind several restaurants, including Rose Park Bistro and Park & Howard Bistro in Burlingame.

“We wanted to continue the tradition of flowery-themed design, creating sanctuary for both patrons and passersby,” Elmahmoud wrote in an email to The Sacramento Bee.

What is new Italian restaurant opening in Folsom?

Fiori will feature authentic Neapolitan cuisine, Elmahmoud said, adding that he and his partners are currently designing the menu to feature traditional flatbread pizzas and pastas.

There will also be expert mixologists at Fiori, serving up high-end liquor and wine.

The new restaurant will offer a dining experience that’s family-friendly and down to earth, Elmahmoud said.

“It’s a sophisticated menu,” he said, “but offered in a very laissez-faire, very lax atmosphere.”

When will Fiori open in old J. Wild’s location?

Elmahmoud said he and his partners received the keys to the former J. Wild’s location on Monday, Sept. 16.

“We will begin remodeling the location right away,” he said.

Elmahmoud said Fiori will open its doors on Nov. 1.

Why downtown Folsom?

By opening Fiori, Elmahmoud and his partners to attract more people back to downtown Folsom.

“We want to attract everybody,” he said, “and specifically want to bring back the younger generation, younger couples and with their family and with their kids, to this walkable area of Folsom.”

This story was originally published August 23, 2024 at 11:51 AM.