Shrimp cocktails? Smoked brisket? On the menu at new restaurant near Lake Murray

Here's one more reason why you should explore the area around Lake Murray for your dining needs — Michael Fusco is opening a new restaurant, d.w. Fusco's, at 2914 Dreher Shoals Road.

The official opening date is Thursday, but Fusco has been holding a series of soft-opening dinners since July 5.

Named after his late brother David, d.w. Fusco's is located next door to Fusco's Market, a neighborhood market featuring fresh cut meats, imported cheeses, desserts and local fresh produce. The market will continue to serve lunch, and for the time being, d.w. Fusco's will be a dinner only restaurant.

The dinner menu features some signature Italian dishes with pasta and custom pizzas, as well as what Fusco calls old-school menu items such as shrimp cocktail, bone-in ribeye and house-smoked brisket. The restaurant features a bar — the John Bailey Whiskey Bar is named after a close friend of the owner — a covered patio and a bocce court for those who like to have a little competitive fun before food.

Michael Fusco started out in the restaurant business almost 20 years ago as the owner/operator of Restaurant at Cinnamon Hill. The Irmo native then went on to open Restaurant One, Two, Three and The Rhino Room in Columbia's Vista district.

After a decade as the executive chef for Agape Senior, in charge of menu development, culinary training and management, Fusco opened Michael's Cafe & Catering on Main Street in Columbia in 2014.

d.w. Fusco's will be open for dinner 4-9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 4-10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and closed Sunday through mid-August. Fusco plans to add a Sunday brunch in the fall.

This story was originally published July 6, 2018 at 1:39 PM.