This time of year is always busy with our neighborhood businesses. We recently brought you photos of the new Scopa and Trattoria Il Panino on Hanover Street. Here, we catch up with some recent “comings and goings” on the North End business scene including news on several retail shops.
There is a new shop to get your eyebrow’s threaded in the neighborhood. The Threading Place has opened its latest shop at 121 Salem Street in the space formerly occupied by the tailor, Vittorio Recupero, who was tragically killed in an accident on I-95 in late 2013. According to their website, The Threading Place does eyebrows, sideburns, forehead, upper lip, chin, neck and full face.

Urban Cantina has closed at 74-76 Salem Street, making way for the upcoming North End Oyster to be run by the folks that brought you Crudo next door.
Cocoanuts on Parmenter Street has closed. Owner and longtime North End resident Tara Shea said, “Running a business in a community where I have lived for the past 18 years, has simply added a wonderful new perspective and an even greater appreciation for the people who live here, the people who visit, the people who work here.” Tara added that she and her family plan to stay active residents in the North End.
Nick Varano’s Original Strega received a full renovation this Spring. Located at 379 Hanover Street, it’s the first revamp since the classic Italian restaurant opened in 2003. New features include chandeliers, leather banquettes, wine displays and paintings from North End artist Giovanni DeCunto. Next door at 371 Hanover St., the Rina’s Pizzeria & Cafe has closed after a short run. No word on what’s next there.
Rocco’s Cucina & Bar is the newly named spot at 450 Commercial Street, formerly known as The Waterfront Cafe. Making the change a few months ago, owner Rocco Zagarella has put a new emphasis on its classic Italian food menu (including weekend brunch) along with 25 televisions to round out the sports bar.
Fresh off receiving its new all-alcohol license earlier in the year, Italiana Cantina Restaurant restored its iconic neon sign on Hanover Street.
The Mendoza Brothers are adding on to the Vinoteca location on Richmond Street with the new Monica’s Pasta Shop. Featuring fresh pasta, cheeses, meats and sandwiches, the North End brothers say it will be an authentic Italian retail food shop.
Bellissimo Nails and Spa is coming to Fleet Street, in the former location of the Twilight clothing shop.
Il Molo (“The Pier”) is expected to open in the next few weeks at 326 Commercial Street in the former space occupied by Davide. Featuring “Serious Seafood” the restaurant comes from Donato Frattaroli with Chef Pino Maffeo focusing on locally sourced seafood inspired by the Mediterranean and New England Coast.
Good luck Donato in your new Venture.
Bobby Church.
The best of everything with Il Molo…SERIOUS SEAFOOD: Yes!!! 🙂 Wonderful!
Sincerely,
Ann – Boston Yacht Charters 🙂
Looking forward to the Mendoza’s new shop, especially their pasta and cheese…..and the sandwiches!