You’ve likely heard the term ‘dead mall’ at some point in the last decade or so. It refers to the sad state of many malls across the country that were once thriving shopping areas that have now become empty and downtrodden.
You could make the argument that the Shops at Clark’s Pond was headed towards being a dead mall just about a decade ago.
The shopping center had lost key tenants like Bob’s Discount Furniture as well as Marshall’s and HomeGoods and seem destined for dead mall status.
Fast forward a few years and people have returned to the Shops at Clark’s Pond in a big way. Enough that the shopping center is preparing for a brand new restaurant.
Il Forno Italian Restaurant to Open in South Portland, Maine
According to Portland Food Map, a new 50-seat Italian restaurant called Il Forno is being constructed as part of the Shops at Clark’s Pond in South Portland.
Joe DionneJoe Dionne
Il Forno will be another venture for Sai Guntaka (owner of Taj) and his business partner Jim Baldi.
Il Forno plans to feature fresh pasta dishes, pizza and a selection of entrees on its initial menu.
Construction is underway on the new space with plans to have a grand opening in October.
The Shops at Clark’s Pond in South Portland, Maine, is Thriving
The addition of Il Forno will add to the impressive turnaround for the Shops at Clark’s Pond.
Clark’s Pond features The Point community center, The Axe Pit, Plato’s Closet, the Maine Warrior Gym as well as Luxury Entertainment Cinemas.
Taj restaurant has been a large draw to the complex and just recently opened another addition, Cobblestones Coffee this past June.
9 New Restaurants That Opened in Maine in August 2026
Gallery Credit: Sean McKenna
Here are 25 of the Best Things About Maine in the Fall
Thanks to our great listeners we were able to compile a list of many of Maine’s best qualities when it comes to the fall.
These great activities, foods, and phenomena can be found all across this great state
How many have of these do you love?
Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka
