Hillcrest never lacks for great places to eat! But, sometimes surprisingly, people from around the world continue to envision the day when they, too, can open a restaurant near the crossroads of Uptown. Here are some of the dreams that have recently come true…
Alberto Morreale, chef of Fig Tree Cafe
The Fig Tree Cafe (416 University Avenue) features handcrafted pizzas and organic salads. Alberto Morreale (at left) spent his early years in Palermo, Sicily before becoming an award winning executive chef in Las Vegas. His Italian-infused dishes are prepared with top-quality local ingredients. Stop by for a slice of heaven just west of the Hillcrest sign.
Bayu’s Ethiopian Cuisine (530 University Avenue) adds a new ethnic dining experience to the neighborhood. Try Reem Ali’s menu highlighted with her mother’s unique and flavorful dishes, and eat without utensils! A lunch buffet is also available.
Sanfilippo’s (2949 Fifth Avenue) classic Italian meals and tasty pizzas have returned! This Hillcrest favorite has relocated to Bankers Hill just south of Quince and serves the same fabulous casseroles, lasagna, specials and generous portions we remembered. Dine inside or enjoy their spacious new front patio. We missed you, Joe…welcome back!
Caffé Vergnano (3825 Fifth Avenue) offers a true Italian coffee experience with authentic tastes and ambience. Owner Hector Rabellino completely remodeled the old Best Wishes card shop space and created a sweet reminder with Roman roots along the tree-lined street.
Busalacchi’s (3707 Fifth Avenue) newest family restaurant, now preparing fresh pastas and bread, was beautifully designed “a modo mio” (Italian for “my way”) with a large outdoor patio and a pizza oven. Their 25-year location one half block south is now home to Top Chef contestant Rich Sweeney’s R Gang Eatery. Read the story of “Spanky’s”.
Pitas Mediterranean Grill (3890 Fifth Avenue) first opened in San Marcos, and we’re thrilled that Hillcrest was chosen for their second location. Brothers Sam and Amir Hamideh add personality and great energy to their wonderful shawarma (carved meats slowly cooked on a spit). Delicious affordable eats. Don’t miss it!