You'll Eat Your Fill at Rizzuto's

Bill Rizzuto has neighborhood dining down to a science. Stepping into his eponymous restaurant, Rizzuto's, is like walking into the home of a close friend: warm, inviting and with the promise of a delicious, carefully prepared meal to come.

The Westport location is poised to celebrate its first anniversary next month. But Bill is no newcomer to the world of comfortable dining. The first incarnation of Rizzuto's in Bethel -- his hometown -- has been pleasing Connecticut palates for six years. Prior to opening that location, Bill was the general manager for Hyatt hotels on both coasts. "When I resigned to start a restaurant, people thought I was crazy," he says, laughing. "People said, 'You worked so hard to get where you are. What are you doing?' But I'm independent. I have an entrepreneurial spirit. I was pretty sure I could do this."

Lucky for us, he was right. Having Rizzuto's in your backyard is like being part of an extended Italian family, one whose door is always open and where there's always something cooking.

"We've worked hard to make a neighborhood type of place -- not a celebrity-styled establishment -- just a spot with good food at a good price. We want to be a place that will keep people coming back," says Bill. And if they keep serving up items like their Tomato Caprese salad, they're ensured repeat customers. It's a simple dish, but Rizzuto's takes it to the next level with basil oil and volcanic salts. This dish will have you thinking about licking the plate, literally. The pizzas are off the charts, too. The prosciutto and arugula pie with fresh mozzarella won't leave you with leftovers.

"My favorite," Bill confesses, "is the Pappardelle Bolognese. It's classic. We cook the beef and the sauce for hours. It's the real thing. No shortcuts."

Bill's commitment to quality shows, from the atmosphere -- don't miss the copper, wood-burning pizza oven in the back dining room -- to the wine list. He doesn't miss a detail. And in a pinch, he'll deliver. "Once or twice," he says, "the delivery guy in Bethel was sick. So I delivered the pizza."

Head over to the Fairfield County location in Westport and introduce yourself. Bill would be happy to meet you. Find him, and your next dynamite meal out, at 540 Riverside Ave. in Westport. Call (203) 221-1002 to make your reservation.

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