The team behind Stratford's newest dining establishment, La Fortuna Bar & Restaurant, hopes to offer customers a blend of Italian comfort food and modern culinary technique. The business opened Monday in the space once occupied by Stella's Restaurant at Oronoque Shopping Plaza, and celebrated last week with a ribbon cutting Friday.

"The food is going to be amazing," said manager Aleks Gjeka, adding diners can expect a homey atmosphere, large portions and a full bar. Signature menu items include pizza from the on-site wood fire oven, the marinated half chicken, and the ragu alla Bolognese and tagliatelle, which, like all the pasta at La Fortuna, is made in-house, according to head chef Brian Zoni.