Hours: Dinner only. Closed Monday. Tues.-Sat. from 4-11 p.m.; Sun. from 1-10 p.m.

Parking: Private mall parking lot in rear.

Catering: A specialty in two convenient rooms (one with French doors onto sidewalk). Fully stocked bar available.

Credit Cards: All major cards accepted.

It was a lovely surprise walking into the newly opened Castel’ Mare Ristorante to be greeted by Host/Co-owner Sal Farruggio who we have watched grow up in the family-owned Mezza Luna restaurant of Flushing. In addition, his brother, Giovanni (John), is the co-owner and executive chef. To top it off, his chef/mother and patron/grandfather were on-site having dinner. What better recommendation could there be?

The talented and dedicated young owners, Sal and John, know the restaurant business from having grown up in it and are adept at making their patrons feel like a part of their family.

Our server, Gabriel, suggested a hot or cold antipasto. We chose the cold which was handsomely constructed with Salami, Provolone, Prosciutto, Giardinera (vinegar cured veggies) and fresh Mozzarella — enough for two people to share ($9). Adding to the enjoyment were a glass of the house wine, and hot bread spread with their signature soft butter and herbs from a small ramekin. (Made-on-the-premises bread will soon be available.) It was a perfect start to a fine dinner.

Our choice from the specials of the day was Chilean Sea Bass with white wine sauce served with asparagus and a medley of fresh vegetables ($22). From the ala carte menu we chose a specialty of the house, Veal A .a Castel’ Mare. Two breaded veal cutlets topped with fresh, cooked spinach and strips of melted Provolone ($15.99). The serving was enormous and tender as well as tasty.

The Farruggio family continues presenting one of their most popular offerings they created years ago at Mezza Luna on Northern Blvd.- a list of pastas (spaghetti, ziti, capellini, fettuccini, rigatoni, penne or fusselli) with an unbelievable list of different toppings (would you believe 28?) from Alfredo to a la vodka. The price of the dish varies with your choice of toppings and ranges from $7.99 to $12.99. Italian favorites ravioli, lasagnas and gnocchi are also listed.