Archived Article By Tom Fitzmorris Originally published February  18, 2008 Ten Percent More Than Before K Restaurant Count Hits 900 That 900 number at the top of today's newsletter looks like a guess, but it isn't. That exactly how many eateries are now in business in the New Orleans area, prepresenting ninety-one more than before the hurricane. Maximo's Italian Grill is set to open, with luck, this Wednesday. They've had some super-soft openings for close friends and staff in the last week or so. The real opening is waiting for the arrival of the liquor license, which should be along this week.  This will be a happy day for Quarterites, who kept the excellent Tuscan-style restaurant busy. On a more disappointing note, Barreca's still has not opened for a la carte service. They said they would right after the first of the year, but still. . . nothing. Private parties continue to be served there on Metairie Road, and David Barreca says he intends to open for regular business in the future. But what is he waiting for? People ask me about the restaurant constantly. © 2008 Tom Fitzmorris. All rights reserved. news@nomenu.com