Duane Sorenson's New Spot: The Italian "Ava Genes"

As previously reported, SE Division's Lauro Kitchen shuttered over the weekend after nine years in business, and now, details emerge about its upcoming replacement, owned by Stumptown founder Duane Sorenson.

Sorenson tells Eater that he'll open a 54-seat "rustic Italian" restaurant called Ava Genes, and a NYC chef — Joshua McFadden (formerly of Lupa, Momofuku Ssam Bar, and most notably, Brooklyn Italian hotspot Frannys, where he served as chef de cuisine) — will spearhead the menu. Sorenson also brings in two ringers from his first foray into restaurant ownership, as the Woodsman Tavern's duo of Carly Laws (wine) and Evan Zimmerman (spirits and beverage director) will curate the spot's wine list and beverage program.

According to Sorenson, Ava Genes is slated to open "the first week of September, after Labor Day." More information as it becomes available.
· All Previous Duane Sorenson Coverage [Eater PDX]
· All Previous Lauro Kitchen Coverage [Eater PDX]

Image of Lauro Kitchen courtesy Michael D. via Yelp