South College Street will soon be graced by a new Italian restaurant called Nottolini's, owned by James and Roberta Torok.
The husband and wife team are currently renovating the old Sante Fe Mexican Grill location at 1660 S. College St. near the Wal- Mart and Auburn Urgent Care to make it an Italian themed fine-dining restaurant with 120 seats and a 20-seat lounge.
The city of Auburn approved tax abatements for the renovation of the building at the city council meeting on Sept. 4.
James Torak is pushing to open the restaurant by Oct. 1 if everything goes according to plan.
James and Roberta Torok attended the council meeting to thank the city for the abatements and to give an update to residents on their soon-to-open business.
Nottolini's will stand out in competition with other Italian restaurants in the area, according to James.
"We are comparable in price to Olive Garden, but our quality is three times better," James said.
James said the restaurant will use all local vendors and the food will be freshly sourced and prepared.
"I want to use all local growers," James said. "Everything will be fresher, our seafood will be one day away from the ship and generally just better."
The councilmembers unanimously wished the Toroks well in "bringing new life to South College Street."
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