Build your appetite, Charlotte. Lady Funari, the Italian-themed restaurant opening in the former Futo Buta space in South End, is getting closer to opening its doors. Hungry diners can expect to order fresh pasta created from family recipes at the space replacing the beloved ramen restaurant.

During a tour of the space under construction, B-Side Group culinary director Vince Giancarlo told CLTtoday about the inspiration to open Lady Funari, a concept inspired by his grandmother Claire Theresa Funari.

"The food always centered around bold flavors and it all came back to family," Giancarlo said. "It was always a point of pride."

Rotating images of a restaurant under construction, a chef talking about the restaurant, and renderings of a brown-warmly lit restaurant with seats throughout. — Chef Giancarlo told CLTtoday about various seating anticipated at the bar, pasta bar, and throughout the restaurant. | Photos by CLTtoday, renderings via NiceDay

The restaurant will seat about 40 people inside, with 40 more on the outside patio. My favorite spot will probably be the inside corner booth.

Fun fact: The patio will feature a window at the cocktail bar + views of the Light Rail as it passes through South End.

Want an early taste? Consider saving a seat at this takeover dinner planned for Wednesday, Sept. 16, at Customshop. The restaurant's opening date is TBA — keep an eye on your inbox.