JERRY MASSAD: New chef carries on fresh tradition

Js' Old Town Bistro's new Executive Chef Ken Drumm's recipe takes advantage of the fresh halibut that's available now.

Drumm comes to Js' from Ti Amo inside the Fandango Casino. He has more than 15 years experience cooking in several popular restaurants in California and Nevada. His experience complements Js' focus on fresh, local ingredients with an Italian influence.

Js' serves fresh seafood, savory pasta, tasty pork and steak dishes and thin crust pizzas.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy dinner on the patio, or try out the new "Half Time" in the bar. All drinks and special appetizers are half-priced on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 4-6 p.m.

Js' is also a great place to host your next party, business event or even a wedding.

Parmesan Encrusted Halibut

Serves 4

4-8 ounce halibut filets - we found fresh halibut at Raley's and the Savemart on the north side, but you can substitute any firm white fish.

6 ounces shredded parmesan cheese

4 ounces extra virgin olive oil

3 Roma tomatoes, diced

1⁄4 cup garlic, minced

1 shallot, minced

1 bunch basil, chopped

1 pound angel hair pasta

Pinch of red pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Heat 1 ounce of the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet. Season the fish with salt and pepper then lightly brown the fish in the skillet on both sides. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the fish and place in the oven for 5 minutes, or until edges are browned.

While the fish is cooking, boil the pasta.

Next, combine the tomato, half of the basil, 1 tablespoon of garlic and 1 ounce of olive oil and set aside. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet; add remaining garlic, basil, shallots and red pepper and saute for 1 minute.

Add the cooked pasta and toss. Divide the pasta onto four plates and top with the halibut.

Spoon the tomato mixture over the fish then serve and enjoy!

• Jerry Massad owns the Cracker Box in Carson City and the new Js' Old Town Bistro, 30 Pike St., Dayton. Js' serves dinner Wednesday through Sunday starting at 4 p.m. Call 775-246-4400 or www.jsoldtown

bistro.com, or find them on Facebook.