Moretti’s serves ‘country-style’ Italian food

Jason Tiberia began working in his parents' family Italian restaurant in California when he was about 13.

So, when Tiberia, now 22, decided to open a restaurant in Southern Nevada, there was little doubt what the new establishment would be about.

Namely: Fresh, homemade and classic Italian favorites served up in a family-friendly dining room designed to turn first-time customers into friends.

Moretti's Eatery opened about four weeks ago at 8490 W. Desert Inn Road. Tiberia is partners with his father, Joseph, in the new venture.

The goal, Jason Tiberia says, is to offer diners "a little bit of everything," although Moretti's is becoming known mainly "for our Italian food, marinara sauce and good pasta."

All of the recipes are from Tiberia's grandmother and are, he says, as authentic as they come.

While there's no lack of Italian restaurants in the valley, the fare at most is "Americanized -- like Prego sauce and Ragu," Tiberia explains. "But this is country-style. My dad was born in Rome, Italy, and it's recipes straight from home."

That means, for instance, that "everything is made daily -- sauce, meatballs, sausages," he adds.

In true family-style tradition, all entrees come with garlic bread and choice of soup or salad, Tiberia says, while the menu also offers a selection of specialty subs and pastas served with marinara, primavera, alfredo, pesto, garlic and oil, butter or white broth sauces.

In an effort to cater to locals, Tiberia says guests may receive VIP cards -- available only for a limited time and only until the supply runs out -- good for 25 percent off lunch and dinner checks.

Although Moretti's Eatery has only recently opened its doors, Tiberia says it's already seeing repeat guests.

Running a restaurant -- particularly a new one -- " is stressful," he admits. "But it's fun, because your customers go from being just strangers to actually friends."

The dining room seats about 36, and sports fans will enjoy the 55-inch plasma TV. Takeout is available, as is delivery ($20 minimum within a two-mile radius). While Moretti's currently has no liquor license, that is in the works, Tiberia says.

Signature dish: Chicken Pino (a hot sub with grilled chicken breast, onions, roasted peppers and marinara, toasted with melted cheese), $6.99 with choice of fries, soup or salad

Starters: Bruschetta, $4.99; shrimp cocktail, $7.99; eggplant rollatini, $9.95

Soups and salads: New England clam chowder, $1.95 a cup, $3.50 a bowl and $7.99 for a big bowl for two; antipasto salad or Greek salad, $8.55 each for large

Entrees: Pasta with shrimp and clams, $13.99; chicken parmigiana, $9.99; lasagna, $9.99

Desserts: Spumoni and New York cheesecake, $3.99 each

Information: 304-1900

By JOHN PRZYBYS