Italian fare is returning to 781 Fischer Boulevard.

Rivoli's was a landmark for 30 years and occupied that location until 2016 when they closed.

Soon after, Cuban restaurant Caneda's White Rooster opened to mixed reviews. The business was having so much trouble that even a makeover on FOX's Gordon Ramsay's 24 Hours to Hell and Back couldn't save the eatery. It shut down earlier this year.

I'm excited to hear that this restaurant location is returning to its Italian roots. Coming soon: Joe Bella's Italian Kitchen + Bar.

There's a story behind the name. The Joe of Joe Bella is Joe Palmisano. The restaurant is named after his two children. He's the owner of Four Seasons Diner right down the street on Fischer in Toms River. Side note, it's one of the best diners at the Shore in my opinion. I just wish they were open later.

Anyway, I digress. Palmisano has teamed up with Robert Scalera who successfully operated Theresa's South in Bay Head. Sadly, Superstorm Sandy caused the closure of the restaurant after eight years.

The new Joe Bella's is in the process of being renovated for indoor and outdoor dining. They hope to be open by the end of January 2021.

What makes this place really interested is not only will they be serving traditional Italian favorites made-to-order, but they will also be running a market with homemade pasta, meats, produce, and salads. Maybe Joe and the crew will give you a few tips if you're cooking something up in your own kitchen?

Good luck to the staff of Joe Bella's of Toms River. I can't wait to sit down for a meal.

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