Restaurants & Bars

New Greek Taverna Opening In Hillsborough As Italian Cafe Closes

Cafe Basilico closed on Monday with a new Greek restaurant set to replace it in Hillsborough.

Cafe Basilico at 378 S Branch Rd Building 1, Unit 2, Hillsborough.
Cafe Basilico at 378 S Branch Rd Building 1, Unit 2, Hillsborough. (Google Maps)

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — New changes are coming to the dining landscape in Hillsborough.

Monday marked the final day for Cafe Basilico to be open at Kingsbridge Shopping Center at 378 S Branch Rd. in Hillsborough.

Hillsborough couple and owners Joe Trani and Kari LaSpisa announced on Monday the "bittersweet" news.

Find out what's happening in Hillsboroughfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"We made this decision for the health and well-being of our family and we are excited for what's ahead," according to instagram.com/cafebasilico_hillsborough.

The restaurant, which had opened in October 2023, was sold to a young man who will be opening Rizes Greek Tavern, a BYOB restaurant serving up authentic Greek flavors.

Find out what's happening in Hillsboroughfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Trani and LaSpisa noted that while Cafe Basilico closed, diners can still enjoy their food a few minutes down the road at their newly opened restaurant called The Fresh Fig.

"We're working hard to bring over as much of Cafe Basilico's menu as possible while continuing to serve fresh, healthy options you know and love," said the couple. "We're so grateful for the support we've received over the years at Cafe Basilico, and we can't wait to welcome you at The Fresh Fig."

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