The Italian River on North River Road in Warren has been serving up Italian favorites, along with beer and wine for a month now after opening doors during a pandemic.

Jose Garcia said, "Everybody was surprised how we open in the middle of a pandemic, people they come, and they very enjoy it over here."

We talked with one of the managers and chef prior to doors opening this weekend.

A grand opening with ribbon cutting ceremony will take place Monday.

Garcia added, "I'm in love with Italian food! It's been a life long dream to open an Italian Restaurant. I work all my life in Italian restaurants. I'm a chef in Italian food. I have 15 years experience in this. That's why I like to open Italian restaurant."

The chef, manager, and part owner loves cooking up prime rib, pasta Fagioli and other Italian specialties with seafood and calamari.

The wife of a business partner told WFMJ news the pandemic delayed the opening because government offices were closed they had to wait to get needed permits. But Carrie Martinez tells us business experience at El Jalapeno is brought to the table here.

Martinez added, "People have left great reviews on the Trumbull County website. Everybody seems pretty happy that comes into our restaurant."

Doors are open 7 days a week. Garcia tells us he hopes there are no more state orders to shut down, but if there are mandates, they will continue to use pandemic protocols, abide by restrictions, and focus on delivery and carry out.

The business thanks customers, and believes great Italian food and customer service will attract folks inside and bring them back again even during a pandemic. Garcia said, "We cook with love all the food."