Tucked away in Granite Bay is a cozy, Italian restaurant known as the best place for garlic.

Open since 1987, it is now under the fresh, new proprietorship of Daniel Seifried, who with passion is bringing back this local establishment. In fact, he has been dreaming about this restaurant and talking about this restaurant for so long, when he described the new purchase of Granitos to his friends, they knew immediately which restaurant he bought.

Seifried eagerly expresses his love for Granite Bay and passionately acknowledges the love for his new restaurant.

The atmosphere of old world ambience is refreshing. Tables are adorned with white tablecloths and soothing candlelight, creating an intimate and almost surreal atmosphere. The room décor includes deep red walls, mirrors, paintings, even Mona Lisa smiles at diners.

Granitos reminds me of Virginia City and Seifried of San Francisco.

Sitting at the granite covered bar or at one of the dining tables, diners can witness the professional labors of Executive Chef Seifried and Chefs Shawn Henderson and Bert Davis.

Touted as a place that is both intriguing and romantic, diners may feel like nestling for the cold winter nights, savoring the pleasing aroma from the kitchen.

Granitos welcomes families with open arms. My grandchildren felt like princesses, enjoying both attention and fine food.

The diligent servers are knowledgeable and eager to speak about the reinventions of the new owner and chefs. They have a good sense of how to treat the guests and make them feel comfortable. Our service was commendable.

The food is fresh and delicately prepared nightly. Diners will appreciate the chopping of the fresh vegetables and the mixing of the special sauces and soups like minestrone and clam chowder all made from scratch.

Some recommended appetizers to tantalize the taste buds are bruschetta, baked penne Alfredo and chicken finger Parmesan. Seifried also recommends fried ravioli.

The menu offers dishes inspired by elegant home style Italian food. Seifried says his favorites are house specialties like Chicken Marsala and any of the Parmesan dishes. He also suggests fruitti de mar, a dish that literally melts in your mouth.

Beer and wine are served and impressive, revamped wine list offers a full line of Andretti Winery and other California wines, as well as wines from around the world. Suggestions from the wine list to accompany your food are provided.

Be sure to save room for the sumptuous house-made desserts, such as tiramisu, cheesecake with crème brule topping and Seifried's favorite, molten chocolate cake, all outstanding complements to a great meal.

At Granitos, we were welcomed and did not feel rushed. We felt our business was appreciated.

What's in the future for Granitos?

"A Taste at Granitos," with wine and entrée samples, will soon be available. Look for lunchtime catering to businesses in the local area, as well as additional catering opportunities.

Don't be surprised to learn about the changing face of Granitos; Seifried's enthusiasm is contagious.

Granitos welcomes Entertainment Book coupons and gift certificates; take your friends and family or savor a romantic evening with someone special. It's worth it.