Manga author Natsume Ono has just gotten another title released by VIZ – this time it’s the yummy and romantic story of “RISTORANTE PARADISO”.

Set in a bistro in Rome, the story explores the romantic relationships that evolve between the staff, plus some saucy sides. Hungry? Sorry about that, but here’s the synopsis anyway:

At the age of 21, Nicoletta travels to Rome to find her mother, Olga, who abandoned her long ago. Nicoletta finds her at Casetta dell’Orso, a charming little restaurant owned by Olga’s husband. The staff of bespectacled gentlemen welcomes Nicoletta warmly, but Olga’s reception is not so pleasant. Olga has never told her husband that she had a child – and he must never know.

In exchange for Nicoletta’s playing “the daughter of an old friend,” Olga offers her a place to live and an apprenticeship at the restaurant. Nicoletta fits in well among the unique personalities at Casetta dell’Orso. She gets along particularly well with the kindly headwaiter, Claudio, a divorced man who, in spite of the many years, has still never removed his wedding ring. As Nicoletta’s feelings for Claudio become complicated, she finds a sympathetic ear in Olga, leading the estranged pair to form a friendship neither expected. But as they grow closer, the pressure of the secret they share may become too much to bear.

If you think Natsume Ono sounds familiar, then perhaps you remember we brought you news of her manga “not simple” not that long ago. Her talented debut was made in 2003 with her web comic “LA QUINTA CAMERA”, and has since progressed with her work “not simple”, “RISTORANTE PARADISO” and the continuation of RISTORANTE PARADISO named “GENTE”. You can also find her manga drama “HOUSE OF FIVE LEAVES” being publicised in Japan’s IKKI magazine.

Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President Sales & Marketing, VIZ Media:

“Natsume Ono continues to push the manga genre in intriguing new directions with her minimalist art style and strong, character-driven stories that deliver surprising quirks and touching endings,” says Gonzalo. “Two of Ono’s other works, HOUSE OF FIVE LEAVES and not simple, both now available for free preview on SigIKKI.com, have garnered accolades from older readers looking for more sophisticated stories. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unique work of this very talented manga creator.”

RISTORANTE PARADISO will be released on March 16th under the VIZ Signature imprint. It will be rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens and will cost $12.99US or $16.99 CAN.

For more info, visit www.VIZsignature.com. You can also find it in our RightStuf and Amazon stores!