A little piece of the Bronx has broken off and come to Louisville, and we couldn’t be happier. Especially since the piece that landed here reminds us of Arthur Avenue, the Bronx’s memorable slice of Little Italy. So, say hello to Palatucci’s Italian American Ristorante, which opened last month in the quarters previously occupied by Gary’s on Spring.

Chef Richard Britney, who owns the place with his wife, Tamara, traces his roots and his love of Italian food to a grandmother who lived in the Bronx. That’s a deep background to bring to an Italian eatery. And if Palatucci’s is one among many Italian places here, Britney’s touch yields a distinct flavor that stands on its own.