Bites Nearby: Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli, 2396 Franklin Rd., Bloomfield Hills, (248) 332-1111

Hamad Kouka, who was the chef for many years at Ristorante di Modesta in Southfield (now Bacco Ristorante), has for many years now invited guests into his own restaurant, Pasta Fagioli. Most leave smiling.

His wife, Janine, provided the garden-like setting with vines and flowers painted on the walls. The place is still going strong, dedicated to gourmet Italian fare. The small, charming dining room seats about 25, but much of the business is carry out and catering. Favorites include such dishes as the titular bean and pasta soup, lasagna and ravioli of the day, as well as more elaborate dishes, including chicken cacciatore, veal Marsala, grilled salmon and whitefish.

Entrees include a house salad. Kouka, whose heritage is Egyptian, is living proof you don't have to be Italian to be a fine Italian chef.

Recommended dishes: Penne Bolognese, foccaccia, veal piccata, chicken grilled with rosemary and herbs 

Prices: Appetizers $7-$10, entrees $11-$28, desserts $5.95 

Credit cards: All major 

Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 4-10 p.m. Saturday, 4-9 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday