Aroma is a major hit with those who prefer northern Italian cuisine prepared with a lighter touch. The decor is neat, accented by yellow napkins and matching fresh bright yellow daffodils, along with its gray-vest clad waiters, sets the tone. With appealing moderate prices and a bring-your-own-bottle cost-capper, Aroma offers a lot of superior choices for its patrons.

On a recent visit, an appetizer portion of baccala (codfish) is offered in two styles, one very lightly coated and fried and the other in a light tomato saucing. Both are excellent.

Polenta with porcini mushrooms is another expression of an airy, pleasant lightness coupled with remarkable flavor.

A step beyond pasta, risotto with porcinis, those wild, wonderful mushrooms grown in Italy, is as well prepared at Aroma as you'll find risotto anywhere. Slightly al dente in its truest tradition, this risotto can be shared as an appetizer or enjoyed as an entree - but it should not be missed.

Moving ahead, the menu offers an excellent variety, from some very different chicken and veal dishes to unique and delicious seafood. Steaks and chops round out the choices, with some fine pastas to draw your attention as well.

A filet of sole sautéed in white wine with almond crust is a beauty to behold as well as a totally different version of sole. Slices of toasted almonds completely cover each filet and piped potatoes rim the plate. With baby carrots lending color as well as balance, this sole is excellent.

Veal Oscar, scaloppini of veal with crabmeat and asparagus in a hollandaise sauce is equally impressive.

Mimo Mogmi is the chef who deserves the kitchen kudos at Aroma. A long-time friend of Anthony Cucinotta, (owner) from their early days growing up in Italy - Mimo is from Milan, part of the northern region influenced by the French - Mimo's service in fine restaurants and Tony's background, having served in some of the highest rated Italian restaurants, are blended at Aroma to produce dishes that are truly memorable.

You can often judge a restaurant by a quick look at those seated in the dining room. Here at Aroma, the ambience is casual, but refined - sweaters, yes, but you don't see the sweatshirt crowd. The real test, however, is always the taste and at Aroma, that, too is refined.

Available for private parties, Aroma is open for lunch Mondays through Fridays and for dinner Mondays through Saturdays.