Serratore's Pasta and Pizza — Restaurant in Hillsborough

I normally don't do full reviews, but definitely felt inclined to do this one. I recently had the pleasure of dining at Serratore’s Pasta & Pizza in Hillsborough while visiting from Pittsburgh, and I can honestly say it’s the best Italian food I’ve had in a long time — and that’s saying a lot, because I love Italian food. From the moment we sat down, everything was exceptional — the ambience, the service, and of course, the food. ⭐ Highlights I ordered the Chicken Piccata and every detail was spot-on. The capers were cooked to perfection, imparting just the right briny pop and texture without overwhelming the dish. The sauce was beautifully balanced and complemented the chicken tremendously. I was fortunate enough to sample everyone else’s entrees: the Shrimp Scampi was absolutely divine — I almost wish I’d gone with that. The shrimp were cooked perfectly, garlic was present but not overpowering, and the dish had a brightness and lightness that lingered in a delightful way. The Chicken Parmesan was another home-run. The sauce was rich, vibrant, and flavorful — truly the best marinara or “red sauce” I’ve tasted in a long time. (It made me regret not ordering a red sauce-based dish myself.) 🍽️ Starters & Other Dishes We began with the Beets & Cheese appetizer — normally I might not order beets, but this one was done so well I was happily proven wrong. The Eggplant Appetizer was equally impressive — tender, well seasoned, and elegant in its simplicity. Even the Garlic Knot was outstanding: warm, pillowy, with just the right hint of garlic and butter. 🍷 Drinks & Atmosphere The wine selection was nicely curated — enough variety to suit different tastes without being overwhelming. The Espresso Martini was bold and exactly what it should be — rich, smooth, a strong finish to a lovely meal. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. The staff, especially our waiter, were attentive, welcoming, and clearly proud of what they do. ✅ Final Take Serratore’s Pasta & Pizza is a gem. Authentic, beautifully prepared Italian-American cooking, with great flavor, great service, and a wonderful dining experience overall. If you’re in or near Hillsborough, this place is absolutely worth your time. I cannot recommend it...

Friday evening visit had us sitting at the bar which is perfectly charming thanks to the friendly and attentive bartenders. A very nice crowd assembled this evening for this newly minted venue in a small town that is absolutely starving for new dining options. There was definitely excitement in the air with a staff that was still finding their groove and customers anxious to welcome this new kid on the block.

The casual ambiance, traditional hand-crafted pasta dishes, and wood fired Neapolitan-style pizzas has Serratore’s firmly positioned as a trattoria. Bar service is top notch and offers various spritzers, wines, mixed drinks made with fresh herbs, and a selection of draft beers.

Starters on the menu include all the traditional favorites (salads, calamari, bruschetta). Six pre-selected pizzas are offered and if none of those tease your pallet you can opt to create your own.

As in Italy pasta here is king. Serratore’s makes theirs fresh so you simply must indulge. We were pleased that we did because the Piccata was molto bene and the Ravioli was meraviglioso. A plate of eggplant parmigiana that floated by had me second guessing my selection but no regrets—catch you next time EPP!

Food service was very quick and our food was delivered piping hot as evidence by the wisps of steam rising from the plates. 10 minutes later we were both members of the Clean Plate Club eagerly awaiting our affogatos.

The menu prices range from $3 (garlic knots) to $35 (Veal Scaloppine. High marks all around on this our first visit. Can’t wait to sample more from the menu on our next...

I don't do a lot of reviews...but wow. What an outstanding meal that started great and got better by the course. My wife and I just went as part of a date night and we may have to move in. Negroni aperitif? Just like I remember from the last time we were in Italy. Local lettuce salad? A sublime balance between the cooked mushrooms and bright dressing. Eggplant parmigiana? Holy smokes, I loved this dish, it was somehow both rich and light -- an absolute standout. Sangiovese and Montepulciano? Paired perfectly. Chocolate torta? Impossibly chocolat-y but also not that heavy over chocolat-y density thanks to whatever sorcery they must be doing in the kitchen. Limoncello? Usually not to my taste but I had to try the apparently family recipe. It was more understated than the commercial stuff and I've concluded I simply haven't had "real" limoncello before. Really really good. And then they recommended we try the also apparently family recipe Bay Leaf Amaro. There are no words. One of the best liqueurs I've ever had. I've never had anything like it, and I would have taken home a bottle were it for sale that way. Just an incredible meal...