Fast-casual pasta and pizza spot Porano in Des Peres is wrapping up service at the end of the month, with its last day set for March 31, owner Gerard Craft confirmed Wednesday. The suburban outpost, which opened in July 2024, occupies roughly 3,200 square feet in the Manchester Road shopping center near Trader Joe’s. The decision ends nearly two years of suburban service for a concept that originally ran downtown, and customers have until the end of the month to dine in or order takeout.
Craft is framing the move as a strategic reset rather than a flop. He told St. Louis Magazine, “I really feel like it’s not the location or the concept — I love the concept.” He added that the group “doesn’t have the desire to grow this into the big business we thought we did” and that Niche Food Group would pause openings for at least a year. Those comments appeared March 25 in the magazine’s report on the closure.
From downtown favorite to suburban outpost
Porano first ran downtown from 2016 to 2018 before Niche Food Group revived the brand in Des Peres in July 2024, a relaunch covered by industry outlets such as FastCasual. On its site, Porano lists the Des Peres address as 13323 Manchester Road and highlights a menu built around build-your-own pasta bowls, salads and Detroit-style pizzas. The suburban restaurant was set up as a 3,200-square-foot, family-friendly spot with plenty of parking.
Why Niche is pulling back
Craft told St. Louis Magazine that stronger performances at other Niche restaurants helped tip the scales and that the group plans “meaningful surprises” for its existing concepts instead of chasing rapid growth. He described the fast-casual market as “tough” and said the past two years have clarified where the company wants to invest its time and energy. For now, the company plans to concentrate resources on its core concepts.
What customers should know
Porano’s website lists hours, ordering information and contact details. Customers with gift cards, catering orders or other questions are advised to check the site or call the Des Peres location before March 31. For current hours and menus, see Porano’s website.
