Italian casual dining chain Johnny Carino’s has unveiled a new restaurant prototype concept to offer a more modern dining experience to its customers.

The first location featuring the updated concept will open in Laredo, Texas, on 25 March 2026.

Johnny Carino's CEO Allan Gantes said: “Guests will find a fresh, energising ambience and a great food and beverage lineup at our new restaurant.

“We have invested in creating a more vibrant environment and modernised our look while staying true to our Italian roots. It reflects the direction we see for the brand moving forward.”

Covering 6,000ft², the site will feature a large bar area, a dining room equipped with multiple televisions, an open kitchen, a private dining room and an outdoor patio fitted with fire pits.

The new restaurant prototype brings an expanded drinks offering, including craft cocktails, wine, 20 draft beers and a reworked happy hour programme.

Johnny Carino's marketing head JD Gantes said: “From updated branding and restaurant design to an enhanced cocktail programme and new happy hour, this prototype represents a meaningful evolution for the brand.

“At the same time, we are staying true to the core Italian favourites that have defined Johnny Carino's for nearly 30 years.”

Founded in 1997, the Texas-based casual dining concept operates locations in ten US states.