Molly Abraham: Restaurant news

Shushtari brothers open Loccino Italian Grill

When brothers Tony and Frank Shushtari decided to add a new restaurant to their portfolio -- they've been principals in the Alfoccino restaurants in Farmington Hills and Auburn Hills for several years -- they were delighted to find what they consider an ideal location.

It's the highly visible spot at 5600Crooks Road in Troy left behind when the Palm restaurant closed.

And that wasn't the only good news for the brothers. It took just one ad on Craigslist recruiting managers, bartenders, waitstaff and kitchen help to bring them 400 replies from qualified people, says Tony Shushtari. That allowed them to hire what he feels is the cream of the crop.

Loccino Italian Grill & Bar is more upscale than Alfoccino, but the brothers are holding the line on prices, with the majority of dinner entrees less than $20.

The entire space has been handsomely renovated, and it's all nonsmoking.

Check out the menu at www.loccino.com.