It’s happening. Ferro, the long awaited Frank and Lori Ferro eatery is scheduled to open to the public the weekend of July 4. Currently in “soft opening” mode, for invited guests only, Ferro promises to add a fresh element of class to Hill cuisine, and with a full bar, bring delight to mixology enthusiasts.

Mariah Tartaglia’s La Bella Montagna (The Beautiful Mountain) Pasta House will add steaks and chops to its current menu, gradually shifting emphasis from pasta to porterhouse. The Beautiful Mountain will become The Beautiful Steak (La Bella Bistecca), a steak, chops and pasta house with what Tartaglia describes as the finest cuts in meat. “My brother owned a butcher shop on the outskirts of Yuma, Arizona,” Tartaglia related. “I worked for him and had to learn all the cuts of meat. I had to run that big old saw and learn how to make the different cuts. I’ll still have my Italian favorites, but the emphasis will now be on steaks, chops and ribs.”

Tartaglia anticipates a formal launch mid July. She is replacing existing signage and adding banners and signs redefining her establishment. She is also considering inviting patrons to select from a menu of side dishes to accompany their entrées. “I want to give customers more choices,” she said. “I’ve redefined my twice-baked potato and am creating dishes with grains like my recent asparagus farro that I served on Father’s Day.”

Of her run over the last three years, Tartaglia said, “I kept my word to the property owner and stayed for the full three years of my contract. I love Idyllwild and hope this will be a new beginning for my restaurant.”

bikes
Josh Morris, proprietor of Idyllwild Electric Bikes sales and rentals on North Circle, and yes, the pink cruiser bike has an electric pedal assist. Photo by Marshall Smith

Josh Morris is opening Idyllwild Electric Bikes after having pioneered electric bike rentals, sales and touring in Temecula with Dave Magdaug’s Temecula Valley Electric Bike Tours. Adjoining Cafe Aroma, Morris’ July grand opening promises 20% off bikes and accessories, $20/hour rental, $40 for three hours or $80 for all day. He carries a variety of electric bikes, with all manufacturers based in Southern California. For more information, visit www.idyllwildebikes.com or call 951-468-4415. “We’re full service and I live above the shop,” said Morris.

Max Lightbender and David Colvera at their work-in-progress gallery, hoping for a July opening. Photo by Marshall Smith
Max Lightbender and David Colvera at their work-in-progress gallery, hoping for a July opening.
Photo by Marshall Smith

For those wondering what is happening at the former Country Farms on Highway 243, young entrepreneur David Colvera acquired the property with the intention of creating a large-format gallery. He has been joined by experienced gallery owner Max Lightbender and their plans now include having 3-D printing as well as audio and visual production. They hope to be open in July.

And finally, Noelle M. Coley is co-founder of Pur cold pressed juice, headquarted in Idyllwild. For more information, visit www.purcoldpressed.com or call 760-537-3857.

Marshall Smith can be reached at [email protected].