An upscale dining addition is making its way to South Daytona in 2026.
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After earning acclaim as one of New Smyrna Beach’s most beloved fine-dining establishments, this Italian restaurant has its sights set north with a brand-new South Daytona location in the works for next year.
Via Canaletto, housed at 317 N. Orange St., recently announced plans for expansion after two successful years at its current location.
For Leon Geller, a New Smyrna Beach native who runs the restaurant with Executive Chef Antonio Mazzella, from the Italian island of Ponza, the decision to expand comes with a seasoned developer’s mindset — one rooted in an opportunity for growth, extending his restaurant’s reach while continuing to invest in local real estate and strengthen community ties.
Via Canaletto: A New Smyrna Beach gem
Joining forces in 2018, the duo’s partnership seemed like natural fit — Geller bringing his developer’s eye for transforming forgotten properties into polished destinations — and Mazzella, contributing decades of culinary talent, from running previous restaurants in Italy, to operating his Florida-born Antonio’s Made in Italy restaurant, which he sold in 2022.
The two opened Via Canaletto, crowned with crystal chandeliers, elegantly dressed tables and a lavish wine selection, in summer 2023 and the quaint two-story property has since seen a steady crowd of regulars and celebrities alike, looking to enjoy Chef Mazzella’s homemade ricotta gnocchi and lasagna.
”I’m old generation,” said Mazzella, who began to hone the craft from the comfort of his family kitchen at just 16 years old. “When I learned (to cook), there was no stuff in a can, you know? You go get it, and make it — you cook,” he continued.
Via Canaletto to expand: Here’s what we know
With the same authenticity-rooted approach and double the dining space, the partners now look forward to bringing a brand-new concept — with a familiar upscale flair — to South Daytona.
The unreleased location, a 1952-built, two-story craft kitchen will feature an expanded indoor and outdoor dining area with live music and an elevated, “industrial chic” design, Geller noted.
“The building was an eyesore, but the city was great … They’ve been super excited,” he said. “… And the beauty of it is there’s a lot of stuff that we’re going to keep. It’s an old-school 1950s solid half-block, but it’s brick-laid … So, we have a couple things up our sleeve.”
Alongside a wine cellar stocked with fine and casual wines, Geller envisions a small taproom-style setup with roughly 10-to-15 taps pouring a mix of local and seasonal brews.
The all-day menu — approachable yet upscale — will be served for lunch and dinner and will likely incorporate the best of Via Canaletto, leaning on artisanal, European-inspired dishes — from scratch-made burrata and gnocchi to wood-fired pizzas, tomahawk steaks and seafood salads.
“Projects like this show how restoring older properties can bring new life to our community,” said Josh McEnany, economic development director of South Daytona. “Redevelopment adds energy and pride to South Daytona by reimagining what’s already here and making it better. When local business owners invest in revitalizing existing spaces, it uplifts corridors, inspires others to reinvest, and strengthens the pride we all share in our city,” he continued, noting the pleasure it’s been to collaborate with the restaurant through its early planning stages.
Unlike the brand’s current location, where its second story primarily serves as office space, the new restaurant has swankier plans for its upper level — a private dining area that takes guests back to a time when indulgence required a bit more discretion, where comfortable booths, low jazz and craft cocktails fill every corner.
“I’d love to do a nice speakeasy, 1920s-, 1930s-style because it’s real nice upstairs — the architecture,” Geller said. “It’s got the rounded (archways) … and it’s got the original kitchen and bathroom; it’s so cool,” he continued, noting plans for charcuterie and tapas-style eats.
“Some people are intimidated to come in (Via Canaletto), but we’ll let you come in with flip flops … It’s fine dining, but it’s beach fine dining,” Geller explained. “… We just want it to be somewhere that’s safe, clean and fun, and that’s what we’re wanting to do over there (in South Daytona).”
More to come at Via Canaletto
While no opening date has been released, Geller is optimistic about the possibility of welcoming guests in February 2026.
“Via Canaletto has built an incredible reputation and following in New Smyrna Beach, and we’re thrilled to see that success expand into South Daytona,” McEnany added.
“Their decision to invest here not only adds to our growing business community but also invites people from surrounding areas to experience how beautiful and welcoming the city of South Daytona truly is,” he continued “… Projects like this show the momentum building across our community. We’re looking forward to seeing this redevelopment take shape and officially open in 2026.”
Via Canaletto in New Smyrna Beach is open 5 – 9 p.m. Thursday – Sunday. For information or reservations, call 386-410-2220 or visit facebook.com.
Dining and Cooking