Renovation begins on former Milo’s

For those driving through town, it’s hard to miss work on what will be a new Italian eatery in a very iconic location of Restaurant Row, which was once owned and operated by the late Milo Hurst, who helped revitalize Boulder City’s downtown area.

Earlier this year it was announced that the owners of the popular Las Vegas-based Nora’s Italian Cuisine had purchased Milo’s, which closed its doors shortly after Hurst’s death nearly two years ago. But now, work has begun.

Owner Marcello Mauro told the Review last week they started the demolition phase a week prior and that it will take three to four months before they’re finished. But that’s just the beginning.

“It’s just demolition for now, and then we will finalize the remodel plans for the restaurant and bar,” he said, adding that he’s both relieved and excited that work is underway. “Now that we’ve started the demo, I would estimate a year, but we won’t really know until after all the demo is completed and plans are approved for the remodel.”

Ever since word got out that Nora’s would be coming to Boulder City, Mauro said the public response has been, “Incredibly positive, and welcoming feedback from everyone in the community.”

Following the purchase of the former Milo’s, Mauro said he and his wife, Morgan, told the Review that Boulder City had been on their radar for quite some time.

“We have been eagerly anticipating the opportunity to bring a new, full-service restaurant to Boulder City,” he said at the time. “This restaurant has been a cherished part of the Las Vegas community for over three decades. However, when we finally received the keys and took possession of the property (former Milo’s), the excitement transformed into a palpable sense of belonging.”

The location holds a special meaning to Mauro and his wife.

“I’ve always had a soft spot for Boulder City, and Milo’s has always been a special place that I’ve been drawn to,” he said. “One of our first dates was actually at Milo’s. I met Milo back in high school, many years ago, and he was such an inspiring man that I always looked up to. Plus, his daughter, Tevis, was a dear friend of mine during my senior year.

“I always felt it was my friend’s place in the heart of this charming historic street, with the good foot traffic and energy that just drew me in.”

Looking ahead

Mauro said the plan is to expand the usable building by 900 square feet, which will enable them to bring in a kitchen that can support their menu. Some may not realize that attached to the back of the building is a small bed and breakfast. They plan to have that open prior to the completion of the restaurant.

“The bed and breakfast part of this property feels like the diamond in the rough,” he previously said. “We are so excited to bring back the boutique hotel once the restaurant remodel is complete.”

Nora’s is known for their classic Italian American menu. That will be the same, he said, for their Boulder City location, which is being called Nora’s Lakeside. The bed and breakfast will be called Villa Nora.

“Nora is my mom, who started the restaurant in 1992 with my father, Gino, and my brothers and I,” Mauro said. “She still keeps an eye on me and will definitely be visiting us in Boulder City.”