Primo's,

157 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester, 754-9709.

On Shrewsbury Street, where the competition among Italian restaurants is formidable, Primo's, located in a former neighborhood bank, is definitely a contender. Chef-owner Joe Petrou's version of Italian standards like ravioli and manicotti as well as several creative, new dishes are imaginative, and generously served. Primo's bruschetta ($4.75) has four large pieces of toasted Italian bread topped with melted cheese and herbs, surrounding a mound of chopped tomatoes, onions, and garlic in a tangy vinaigrette. Saute of salmon and scallops over pasta ($11.95) was cooked for just enough time in the saute pan to be tender. They were joined by chopped mushrooms, red onions and fresh spinach leaves, in a red pepper cream sauce. Served on a mound of ziti in a colorful pottery bowl, this dish was both elegant and hearty. Tortellini, a cheese lover's dream, was another eye catching dish. The plump, hat-shaped pasta filled with ricotta cheese were surrounded by a ring of bright green, steamed broccoli florets, and the romano and parmesan cheese sauce was brightened by bits of chopped fresh tomato and green onions.

Full review.

Price Range: $6 - $16.