BOARDMAN — Akron-based restaurant chain Swensons Drive-Ins has started construction on a new restaurant in Boardman at the former Nicolinni’s Ristorante.

The restaurant at 1247 Boardman Poland Road due west of the Tiffany Boulevard intersection will be the first for the company in the Mahoning Valley and its 17th in Ohio. The chain, known for its in-car dining, also has locations in Cincinnati, Columbus, Akron, Canton and Cleveland.

“We pride ourselves on serving white tablecloth-like service at your car door. Our model harkens back to the roaring heydays of the American drive-in,” said Kevin Howley, senior director of marketing for Swensons.

To celebrate the new location, Swensons will have a food truck cookout 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the site.

The Boardman location is expected to open this summer and employ about 65 people. Hiring will begin in June.

Nicolinni’s Ristorante closed in July. The building was demolished.

business@tribtoday.com