After much planning and research, Michael Lombardi opened Il Pallino in Richmond Valley over Columbus Day weekend.  The bistro marks his first foray into restaurant ownership.  And despite the long, intense hours putting the place together, Michael declares, "I'm having fun." With a love for cooking, Michael sees himself a natural for the restaurant life. 

"I have a passion for cooking, a passion for making people happy," says Michael. "I'm tired of a thousand people telling me I've missed my calling." On his "family oriented" menu are Sicilian specials, homemade pastas, Italian tapas, "fun desserts," and family recipes. "Eggplant Stack" is served in a skillet.