A promising newcomer to the Norwalk restaurant scene, Marina D'Amalfi has been newly renovated since taking over premises formerly occupied by Maria's Trattoria at 172 Main Street, Norwalk. This small, cozy, authentic Italian restaurant emphasizes Southern Italian fare and fresh, homemade pasta, with a nod to the north in dishes such as Osso Buco with Risotto. More typical dishes are Spaghetti Carbonara and Capellini Sole Mio (calamari, scallops, shrimp, and mussels over angel hair pasta). The all-Italian wine list includes 50 bottles of red and white wines, ranging from $32 to $250 per bottle; a dozen wines are available by the glass.

Initiated into the food industry at age 15, owner Giuseppe Cinque hails from Positano and held increasingly responsible posts in Italy  where he worked at the Ciga Hotel  and Austria, Germany and England. He has also worked at Sole (New Canaan), Siena (Stamford) and Terra (Greenwich), and opened his first Stateside restaurant in Monroe, Connecticut. For three years he has teamed up with Chef Ermanno Rao and often lends a hand in the kitchen. He is a dab hand at seafood and likes making profiteroles.

It can prove a double-edged blessing taking over an established restaurant in decline. However, within three days of doing so last November, Cinque says his new venture already showed a profit. His secret: cutting prices and offering more for less. Particularly impressive are the dozen enticing specials offered to supplement a dozen staple dinner dishes each evening. The price range for appetizers is $7.50$9.00; for entrees, $13.00$28.00; and for desserts, $7$9.50. Marina d'Amalfi is open Monday through Saturday, closed on Sunday. Call 847-5166 for reservations.