Il Forno, a Neapolitan-style pizzeria on Mulberry Street in Little Italy, has expanded its outdoor seating capacity ahead of the spring season. The new setup nearly doubles the number of tables on the sidewalk.

The restaurant worked with the city’s Open Restaurants program to secure permits for the expanded space. Owner Marco Rossi said the additional seating helps accommodate increased demand without compromising social distancing.

Il Forno, known for its wood-fired pizzas and classic antipasti, has been a neighborhood fixture since 2017. The expanded outdoor area is expected to remain through the summer months.