Bedford Retail Roundup: Gianfranco's Owner Expands

Sette e Venti to Open

Maurizio Belli wants to bring traditional Italian dishes back to Bedford, in family-friendly atmosphere that's casual—and "not stuffy."

"With the economy the way it is, I want people to feel comfortable," said Belli, a native of Italy who moved to America 38 years ago. "No white tablecloths."

He owns Gianfranco's Pizza and will open a sit-down companion just next door, in the plaza at 720-740 Bedford Road on Route 117.

Belli will provide input for the menu—which will include Italian favorites like stuffed artichokes and homeade pastas—but has hired a chef to engineer the dishes. The space will have seating for approximately 65-70 diners, and could be open as early as the end of April, he said.

The plaza is anchored by Radio Shack, Bedford Bagel, Salsa Fresca Restaurant, Carvel. The restaurant space has seen several openings and closings - one local resident once called it the plaza with the revolving restaurants - in the past few years.

Finer Winer Apparently Shuts Down

The shades are pulled down on the windows of the which opened in Katonah in 2011. The mail is piling up just inside the doors and the shelves are looking bare.

Calls to the store were unanswered and emails sent to the owner, Dino Turchioe, bounced back. We'll update this story if more information becomes available (taking news tips!)

Mrs. Green's Extends Hours

The Katonah store that specializes in natural foods (think organic, wheat-free, vegetarian and more) is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. 

The change in hours went into effect earlier this month. Before that, hours of operation were 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, and 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Marmalade Kids Opens in Cross River

Just a quick heads-up: There's a new business in the area that parents of young children will want to check out. It's called Marmalade Kids and the services include mixed media arts and crafts classes for toddlers and kids, birthday parties and "rainy day crafts," according to its website.

Look for more info. on Patch about this new business soon.