Mario Enriquez grew up around food. As a young man, he opened two restaurants in New York, then another in California. Five months ago, he moved his family to Alabama deciding it was time to bring some NYC flavor to the MGM. His restaurant La Trattoria just opened. “I’m nervous and excited,” said Enriquez. He’s had restaurants on both coasts, but says New York is always home.

La Trattoria opened at 503 Cloverdale Road, which used to be another Italian-inspired eatery, Tomatino’s. The preceding pizzeria closed in 2023. Now it’s time for a new Italian flavor. Enriquez describes it as “a casual, mom and pop small restaurant.” He and his family have been working around the clock to get ready for opening.