Discover what’s driving the buzz around Hillsborough’s newest restaurants, shops and wellness spaces
Serratore’s Pasta & Pizza
Traditional Italian-American fare gets a fresh, skillful touch at downtown’s newest restaurant, Serratore’s, led by chef and owner Josh DeCarolis. Josh worked on the concept with his business partners, Pietro Costanza and Phil Bey, for a long time but hadn’t found a proper home. “When the former Radius space opened up, it was a no-brainer for us,” he says.
The menu highlights classics prepared with care, including a full slate of Neapolitan pizzas and a standout cutlet section featuring chicken or veal in several styles. “The ambient-fermented pizza dough is light and crispy with just the right amount of chew,” Josh says. All pastas – from spaghetti to rigatoni to gluten-free gnocchi – are made fresh in-house, drawing on Josh’s time at Durham’s Mothers & Sons Trattoria. Pietro curated the wine list from his 15 years of restaurant industry experience in Italy, while bar manager Megan Comeau crafted cocktails using locally sourced herbs and seasonal fruits. A rotating frozen spritz adds a playful touch.
The restaurant features family photos, a bustling bar and a quieter back room available for private events. “I want people to experience a genuinely warm and fulfilling experience – like going to grandma’s house for dinner,” Josh says.
Vesta – Home + Life + Clothing
Intentional and elegant, Vesta brings a California-meets-European sensibility to downtown’s retail scene. Francesca Morgan opened the boutique, after moving from the Monterey Bay area, because she wanted a place that offered thoughtful, elevated pieces all in one spot. “We believe in quality over quantity and being able to wear pieces multiple different ways,” she says, noting that the shop’s clothing, home goods and perfumes are curated with purpose…