Just shy of seven years ago, Ari Shapiro opened Falora in midtown Tucson with a minimalist menu showcasing Neapolitan pizza. The restaurant has maintained its New York-neighborhood vibe with hardly any menu changes over the years. However, it quietly announced the addition of house-made pasta and a new partner in the business—baker Travis Evans.
After baking for nationally acclaimed bakeries and restaurants such as Sullivan Street Bakery, Eleven Madison Park, and Bouchon, Evans moved back to Tucson. Here, he sold his own baked goods at farmers markets and also baked for local restaurants such as Union Public House and Proof Artisanal Pizza & Pasta.
For now, the menu features two new pasta dishes: Hazelnut Gnocchi ($17) and Caputo Raviolo ($17).
The pillowy vegan gnocchi features an almost Japanese flavor profile with shiitake mushrooms, vegetable broth, and a ginger glaze. The raviolo tastes more distinctly Italian with toasted pine nuts and aged balsamic in addition to the Taleggio-esque creamy, mild Grand Chimay cheese.
While Falora plans on keeping their pasta menu refined rather than expanded, they may begin offering occasional pasta specials.
Falora is located at 3000 E. Broadway Blvd. For more information, visit falora.com.
