Rich LoRusso has been encouraging people to mangia bene since 1986. After a few years Œdown Hampton,š he moved to his current location at 3121 Watson Road in 1989. With a chefšs background, Rich didnšt want to lose the connection to the customer by stepping into the kitchen. So he expanded and renovated his restaurant in 1996 to feature an open kitchen.

Diners can enjoy the spirit and activity of the kitchen, which mirrors the activity around the restaurant. There is so much going on at LoRussošs that itšs a benefit they offer a direct mail and email list. In the newsletter and on the website, you can find recipes (including LoRussošs most popular Tenderloin Mudaga), sign up for the birthday and anniversary club, or find coupons and specials ­ like the recent half-off any bottle of wine under $100! But donšt forget the happy hour Tuesday through Friday, or the live piano music with Jim Becker (who has been playing at LoRussošs since 1986) on Friday and Saturday nights. LoRussošs activity also extends into the community. With The Pasta Bowl, customers send in their favorite pasta recipes. The staff picks the top three, which are presented at a big dinner to sample and vote on the winner. That recipe goes on LoRussošs menu for one year, and every time itšs ordered $2 is donated to Operation Food Search. The big dinner takes place the week after the Super Bowl, so itšs a good time to perfect and submit your favorite pasta recipe.

You can also look for LoRussošs in our silent auction at Party in the Park on September 20. Finally, Rich recalled a power outage on a busy Friday night last January. The staff quickly broke out all the candles they could find ­ for the customers and for the kitchen. The atmosphere created by cooking and dining by candlelight, the cool temperature in the air, and the patience from everyone of their shared experience was magical. Rich received such an overwhelming, positive response from the guests that evening that they now turn off the lights on purpose and dine by candlelight on Valentinešs Day.

Be a part of the activity and ambience that is LoRussošs by joining them for lunch Tuesday through Friday, or for dinner Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday). Learn more online at www.lorussos.com or better yet, call 647-6222 and make a reservation soon.