Copeland’s Owner Opening New Restaurant at Scottsdale Center

The area known as “Restaurant Row” at the Scottsdale Center in Rogers is getting a new tenant, and the owner is familiar with the landscape.

Cheezey’s American Grille is scheduled to open June 1 at 401 N. 46th St., the former home of O’Charley’s.

Joe Lisuzzo, the majority owner of Copeland’s of New Orleans since its opening in April 2002, also will be in an ownership role with Cheezey’s. The two restaurants sit next to each other.

“That will certainly make things a little less stressful having them both close by,” Lisuzzo said.

Lisuzzo and his wife, Jane, along with Richard and Stephanie LeBouff are partners in the new restaurant and have spent the last year developing its concept. Joe Lisuzzo said despite the recent defection of some retail businesses from the Scottsdale Center, adding another restaurant was a no-brainer.

“Ask anybody on the street doing business and they’ll tell you that this is still a great area,” he said. “From a restaurant standpoint we feel strongly that this is still a great location to be.”

Richard LeBouff, who has more than 25 years experience in the restaurant industry, joined Copeland’s as general manager in November 2004. He will hold the same position at Cheezey’s and oversee both operations.

Cheezey’s will be a moderately priced sit-down restaurant, Lisuzzo said. The idea is for “a family of four to be able to eat here for under 40 bucks,” he said. “The most expensive item on the menu is a steak at 15 or 16 bucks.”

The menu at Cheezey’s will include a section of southern favorites including potpies, meatloaf and pot roast. An Italian section will offer staples including ravioli, pasta, spaghetti and meatballs and lasagna.

Chicken dishes, steaks, ribs, burgers, specialty sandwiches and wraps also will be offered.

Lisuzzo said the bar will specialize in margaritas, daiquiris and micro-brewed beer.