PLATTSBURGH — Dino's Gourmet Pizza and Pasta owner Ali Tartoussi said the business has been well-received since it opened June 15.

"We've been unbelievably busy without doing any advertising," he said.

The restaurant is located in Wilson's Appliance Plaza at 795 Route 3. That is the former location of Broadview Steak, Seafood and Caterers, which closed in early May.

In addition to pizza and pasta dishes, the menu includes stromboli and calzones. Hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, chicken, fish fillets, salads and appetizers are also available.

Plans call for some Lebanese dishes on Thursdays and Fridays, as well as steak and seafood dishes on weekends.

Tartoussi said he buys his produce locally. "I like to support the local community," he said.

A temporary license to sell beer and wine is expected soon, followed by a permanent one.

Dino's has a full-service catering business. Deliveries are also available.

The restaurant features new furnishings and equipment. Tartoussi said renovation work started May 15.

Olive-green walls with red floral trim, red or white tablecloths and floral-patterned rugs provide a pleasant family atmosphere. Large windows allow plenty of natural light to shine through the dining areas.

A large aquarium, hanging plants and framed paintings also lend to the decor.

There is seating for about 100 people, with plenty of space available for more. Tartoussi plans to install some outdoor seating also.

He said his staff is friendly and energetic, which makes for a pleasant dining experience.

The landlord is Nate Wilson of Wilson's Appliances. Tartoussi has a five-year lease with an option for another five.

"I have the nicest landlord on the planet," he said.

Tartoussi is the chef, a craft he learned in his homeland of Lebanon. He worked in a restaurant in Burlington before he came to Plattsburgh eight years ago.

Tartoussi was also a partner in the now defunct Sahara restaurant for about a year.

He most recently worked at Nadim's on Rugar Street. Tartoussi decided to open the new restaurant because he saw a great opportunity for a family restaurant in the west end of the Town of Plattsburgh.

"I have a lot of loyal customers in Plattsburgh," he said. "Plattsburgh is a great place to do business. There are still a lot of family values in this town."

There is also a lot of traffic passing the restaurant every day, he said. Proximity to Champlain Valley Educational Services and the Air Industrial Park also helps.

The decision to open was made even though people advised against it due to the struggling economy, he said.

"You need to be strong and not let fear affect you," Tartoussi said. "I'm so positive about opening this restaurant."

He thanks his friends, loyal customers, staff and landlord for making the restaurant a reality.

"I urge new customers to come to my new restaurant and give us a try. We won't disappoint you."

E-mail Dan Heath at: dheath@pressrepublican.com