Mario Cirikovic opened Cugino's of Farmington in 2001.

In Italian, the restaurant's name means "cousin's" chosen by Mario in honor of the cousins who helped bring him to America and realize his dream of opening a restaurant.

The menu at Cugino's of Farmington is inspired by Mario's childhood memories. His mother, who is from Italy, was a talented home cook, and his father, known to all as "Papa Johnny", is a native of Montenegro, where Mario and his brothers and sisters grew up. This influenced Mario's fascination with Mediterranean and Adriatic cuisine.

His recipes such as Tartufi Caramella, Sacchettini Tartufi, Steak Viterbo and the Seafood Salad, are among the entrees Mario has reinterpreted on today's menu.

Cugino's serves lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. For early bird diners, Cugino's has a "Beat the Moon" menu. All entrees are $12.95.

Cugino's is also a kid-friendly restaurant, offering a children's menu, serving spaghetti and meatballs, ravioli and even a small steak. Children 12 and under eat for free on Wednesdays.

Visit www.cuginosrestaurantfarmington.com or call (860) 673-9366 for more information or to make a reservation.