Hillsborough HS Grads, Friends Celebrate Newly Renovated Pizzeria

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — After a year of hard work, longtime friends and Hillsborough High School graduates Greg Barberi and Bryan Chiaravallo are ready to host an official grand opening for their newly renovated Roman Gourmet pizzeria.

The celebration will be held at 601 Route 206 in the ShopRite shopping center from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with Mayor Shawn Lipani cutting the grand opening ribbon at 2:30 p.m. During the day, specials including $1 slices, 25 percent off diner entrees, and gift card giveaways will be offered.

Barberi and Chiaravallo took over the pizzeria last November but a lot work was needed.

"There was carpet running throughout the restaurant, old light fixtures, it looked like an old diner," said Barberi to Patch. "It was very dark inside and now it has completely changed. We installed all new lights, new flooring, updated the bathrooms, and just put in a brand new 30-inch pizza showcase as well. It really brings everything together."

Barberi has lived in Hillsborough since he was 4 years old and graduated from Hillsborough High School in 2007. Chiaravallo graduated in 2006. The pair have known each other since they were 14 years old.

Barberi has been working in the pizza industry since he was 16.

"I worked in it my whole life and [Chiaravallo] had the same type of passion for food but we never had the opportunity to pursue it," said Barberi.

Then last year the opportunity came up.

"We had always talked about owning a pizzeria when we were younger," said Barberi.

The friends decided to take the leap and a year later they are ready to really showcase their hard work.

Customers will come into a clean environment with fresh flowers placed on the tables from a neighboring florist to brighten the space.

Roman Gourmet offers pizza, sandwiches, salads, and entrees with everything made to order. Food is available for dine-in, take-out, or delivery.

Currently, Roman Gourmet is looking to hire front counter staff and delivery drivers.

Barberi said he is really looking forward to officially opening their pizzeria on Tuesday.

"I enjoy building relationships with the customers, knowing them on a first-name basis," said Barberi.

For more information visit instagram.com/theromanhillsboro or facebook.com or myromangourmet.com.

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