This was a casual and small spot in a mini complex with unique Italian breakfast and lunch options. The service was nice and friendly while the food came out in a timely manner. I went with the croissant panino ($17). This also came with a side salad or fries. I went with the salad, and it was tasty and fresh. The croissant had mortadella, burrata cheese, arugula, crushed pistachio, and a balsamic glaze. It was well put together. The croissant itself was flaky and buttery. The layers of mortadella was appetizing while the pistachio provided a nice crunch factor to the sandwich. The glaze really brought everything together. I also tried the fig grilled cheese that had prosciutto, mozzarella, and provolone cheese with a fig jam. This was good. There was a nice char on the Italian bread while the fig jam was a unique compliment to the cheeses. Will I go back? Definitely. read more

Cafe Basilico - Croissant Panino - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

Traveled out of our way to try Cafe Basilico and it did not disappoint. Visited on a weekday and got seated immediately. The small quaint environment was welcoming and service was punctual. We started with a warm pistachio latte, which was one of the best we've had. The Fig Grilled Cheese was good, but the fig jam could've been better; however, the fries that accompanied the sandwich hit.the.spot... just perfect. The cannoli French toast was equally as delicious - the portion size was generous and they did NOT skimp on the cannoli bites... absolutely scrumptious. Hope to make a trip back soon and try more off their menu! read more

Cafe Basilico - Fig grilled cheese - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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Visited again and 10/10 absolutely delicious! I tried their matcha latte as well and it was bomb. Coffee was also bomb, I love this place! Can always count on a delicious breakfast here. read more

Cafe Basilico - Dutch Boy - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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Came here for brunch on the weekend after Thanksgiving when family visited. Everyone was happy with their orders including drinks. They don't have too many tables so go earlier if you don't want to wait. The waitress was busy running around doing her best so just sat tight and relaxed; it's a brunch. Enjoy! read more

This is an excellent place to have breakfast, lunch or brunch, with wonderful service provided by the waitstaff! My friend and I enjoyed brunch in their cute, cozy and clean dining space. Their meals are both one of a kind, yet classic and authentic Italian dishes. I was really impressed with the beautiful way they presented each dish, making this even more exciting and satisfying to eat. Beyond the aesthetic look of the dishes, everything tasted so fresh and enjoyable. The berry crostini was a "wow" of different flavors with the burrata, sweet berries, and chili infused hot honey drizzle all blending together well. The burrata bruschetta is essentially summer on fresh Italian bread. The simplicity of the burrata and tomatoes were a winner in my book. The eggs in purgatory (uova in purgatorio) was a light yet savory dish bursting with flavor from the vibrant tomato sauce. My friend loved her lemon French toast and had zero complaints. Finally, the gnocchi carbonara were soft, fluffy clouds of perfection, melting in my mouth with each bite. I am a big fan of this spot after our amazing meal. I would recommend to anyone looking for a great place to eat! read more

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This place poppin! My group of 5 had a great experience. My friend ordered a hot chocolate and it came out all Pinterest like and tasted delicious. Our server helped us pick out a variety of breakfast items which all were plated beautifully. The Cesar salad my friend said they would come back ordered it again they loved it so much! The place screams cozy cafe, where you want to spend awhile catching up with friends. read more

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This small eatery packs big flavors in their dishes. The food was really great, 2 adults split 2 dishes and we both loved both items. Service is what I now consider "typical post Covid service" but everyone was quite friendly! Definitely worth a trip back to try different items. read more

Cafe Basilico - Avocado toast topped with a fried egg - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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My wife and I came here for lunch after family plans fell through. My wife ordered a chai tea latte while I went with a San Pellegrino Aranciata. For lunch, my wife went with the Grumpy (sliced Italian bread, imported prosciutto di Parma, sliced tomato, lettuce, fresh mozzarella, mayo). I went with the Piadina (extra thin flatbread, imported prosciutto di Parma, fresh mozzarella cheese, arugula, sliced tomatoes, balsamic glaze) which was not on the menu. My wife enjoyed her lunch but could only eat half. It was very filling with the hero roll. Mine was a good portion and very tasty. It's very quaint. Definitely feels like a brunch spot. The staff are very friendly. read more

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The food and service is amazing! We had the cheesesteak and the fig grilled cheese and burrata bruschetta which was soooo tasty! If you want a great meal this is the place! read more

Cafe Basilico - 1/2 of the cheesesteak sandwich - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

I ordered pickup from here because I really wanted to try their Nutella waffle after seeing a friend's picture on social media. The Nutella waffle did not disappoint. The two waffles are liege waffles, not the soft and fluffy Belgian waffles that are typically served at brunch restaurants, and topped with a good amount of strawberries, bananas, and a Nutella drizzle. It is definitely a sweet entree and I personally didn't need any syrup with it. I also ordered a side of breakfast potatoes which was large in portion, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Finally, I ordered the gnocchi carbonara for lunch, which was large enough for me to eat at two different sittings, but it was too 'eggy' and not creamy at all (not what I was expecting at all for a carbonara)- I wouldn't order that specific entree again. read more

Always delicious food and wonderful friendly service! A great place to get brunch! They also have a lot of variety on the menu, so it's perfect for people with different tastes, there is always something for everyone. read more

Went to Café Basilico with my mom and two kids as ours usual brunch spot was closed--big mistake. Not even remotely family-friendly. The food took forever to arrive, and when it finally did, it was a major letdown. The kid's fries were stale, hard, and overcooked, and the frittata was dry and hands down the worst I've ever had. Service was slow and the staff had a real attitude--maybe they were overworked or short-staffed, but it doesn't excuse the experience. Definitely won't be back. read more

A super cute brunch spot in Hillsborough with friendly service with hearty portions. A great place to go to with girlfriends or family.

Amazing cafe with an inspiring and artisan menu. I was searching for a place for avocado toast one morning and found this spot. Wow so good! The menu is among the best in town. This is the cafe Hillsborough deserves with a trendy ambiance and good service. This is a must go for anyone who appreciates well crafted plates. read more

Cafe Basilico - Polipo grilled octopus with balsamic glaze potatoes appetizer. Very tender great flavor. - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

I can't say enough good things about Cafe Basilico! I've been here many times and I've never had a bad meal here. The food is consistently amazing, with every dish bursting with flavor and prepared with such care. Whether it's a casual meal or a special occasion, the quality never disappoints. The atmosphere is welcoming and cozy, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a great meal with family and friends. I often recommend this place to my coworkers, friends, and family, and they always leave just as impressed as I am. The staff are friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home every time you visit. I love supporting local businesses, and this restaurant is a gem in our community. It's evident that they truly care about their customers and take pride in what they do. If you're looking for consistently delicious food and a place that feels like a second home, Cafe Basilico is a must-visit!! read more

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Nice place to have lunch, I have been here twice , nothing but good food and wonderful people

I have been riding past this place for quite some time now finally it was empty and was able to stop. Very quiet peaceful place minimal seating. Service was pretty good since we were the only people in there. To be honest there was very little on the menu that appealed to me because the menu was kind of small but I was able to find something that I liked. The calamari was great my daughter did not like her food but she finished it. My food was good it was fresh it was hot it was linguine and clam sauce which I love and this place has very good linguine and clam sauce. Nothing like your local pizza place more fresh very buttery very garlicky and flavorful I really liked it. I would go back maybe for takeout but not in any rush. It was quite pricey for the amount of food you got. read more

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If I could give 10 stars I would. Found this little gem in downtown main street. It's a small place but as soon as you walk in, it's easy to tell it has huge heart. Reservations not required but i'd recommended it and a BYO. The food was to die for. Authentic Italian food is hard to come by. We tried numerous dishes on the menu. Every dish came out hot, fresh and delicious. We will absolutely be back. Thank you for a wonderful night. read more

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The food here is excellent and varied. Everything is delicious! Sadly open Wed-Sunday. read more

Great, fairly new spot in Raritan NJ, super fresh food. Little place tucked in on Main St. Have read that the owner is from Italy and is living in near by Hillsborough. Staff are friendly and know their menu, had additional specials to add also. BYOB. We were delighted with our meals, fresh & bright atmosphere, modern, no fuss. I'd expect you'd need a reservation Thurs through Saturday. I made one tonight, although there were a couple of open tables. They do have a few tables outside. Portions were big, two ladies had left overs for lunch tomorrow, which is always a plus in my book. Cheese plate was delicious, I had the pork epomeo which was a twist of a Marsala sauce, had to stop myself from gobbling down the entire plate and then regretting eating too much. Will definitely visit again, next time I will try the polipo appetizer for sure, grilled octopus, may just have to stop by & pick up for lunch one day!?? That and the caprese or burrata salads sound amazing! Can't wait to return! read more

Cafe Basilico - Chicken Milanese - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

Friendly and upscale atmosphere, excellent menu. Absolutely adored the Italian grilled cheese, the quality and flavor were impeccable. There is much to try, we will be back soon. read more

I can't say enough great things about Basilico From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warm smiles from the owners, who truly make you feel like family. The cozy atmosphere adds to the overall delightful experience. The food is nothing short of fantastic. Every dish bursts with authentic flavors and is prepared with love and care. Their pasta dishes are to die for, and the homemade sauces are heavenly. Don't even get me started on their delectable desserts! Would highly recommend! read more

Cafe Basilico - a collage of pictures of different dishes - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

The food here is amazing - not just amazing - the absolute BEST. Everything is made daily from fresh ingredients and the chef and his partner truly pour their heart and soul into making sure all of the dishes are flavorful and perfect. I'd had previously only had takeout from this place, per recommendation from my wife, and was very happy with the quality and flavor of the food... but dining in person was a whole different experience on a different level. I was so blown away I asked if we could meet the chef - upon him entering the dining room, he received a round of applause from everyone who was dining there with us and spent time interacting all of the diners at each of the tables. We will definitely be back...soon. Thank you for such an amazing dining experience - great date night!!! read more

Cafe Basilico - Fico Salad, Vongole alla Diavola - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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What an adorable and quaint restaurant on the mainstreet of Raritan. Small and intimate with the best service, the ladies are friendly and attentive making you feel like your having dinner at your besties house. The food is delicious! My first time here was for an intimate wedding dinner and they 110% made it the most personal and detailed event I've been to in a long time. The care and passion these ladies and the chef present its so rare now a days but it all speaks for itself in the dining experience. Recently I came here for dinner with family and once again, awesome! The food is fresh and full of flavor, the calamari was great and my main dish i asked for an off menu creation with pasta, shrimp and garlic and the most amazing dish came out. I'm not an Italian food fan, but this place might just be the reason that will change! read more

Cafe Basilico - a group of people sitting at a table - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

The reason for my two stars is cuz it tasted good ... other then that. I was disappointed that I paid 12 dollars for the Milano Chicken sandwich (w/o tomatoes) and Inside was half of a half of breaded chicken *disclaimer* sorry for the half eaten sandwich photo. I wasn't going to put a review but after seeing my 2nd half of my sandwich I just had too. My suggestion to the restaurant is that they should of given me the other half of chick and stacked it. read more

Cafe Basilico - Milano Chicken Sandwich - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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Wonderful intimate restaurant. BYOB. Food is fresh and delicious. Service was attentive. We had the FICO and Mela salads which were both awesome. As entrees, we had Ravioli Ishcia and Pasta Ai Funghi. The pasta was cooked perfectly and delicious. I found the Ai Funghi to be really rich. The addition of the marsala left me with an off taste and I would prefer if it were omitted from the recipe. Portion sizes were generous and the price was reasonable for a very homemade experience. Definitely give this new addition to Raritan a try! read more

Came on a stormy Tuesday evening to celebrate our anniversary. The restaurant had a good amount of customers during this off time which says a lot. Seated immediately. Service was good. Food was fresh, hot and delicious. We were very pleased and will return to try other dishes. We had Limone pasta and Sausage w broccoli rabe pasta. read more

Cafe Basilico - Limone - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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Amazing authentic Italian food. Great service. BYOB. Highly recommend. Small intimate room so come early or make a reservation. read more

Cafe Basilico - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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I will say this restaurant has some of the best Italian food in the area. I was very impressed with the quality of the food but also ample portion sizes. From meatballs to bruschetta to gnocchi; everything was cooked to perfection and tasted homemade. For dessert I had a monstrous warm cookie sundae. I am excited to have discovered this place and can't wait for my next experience. Highly highly recommend. read more

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The food is amazing and fresh. It's byob! The service is also very good. Truly recommend for Italian!!!

Service was terrible the waitress in the morning was insanely rude to my grandmother who has a special diet. She scoff and says it's going to take a while and proceeds to speak about her behind her back in the kitchen which we heard . This is the worst restaurant in Hillsborough please never go here read more

Nice ambiance, food had no flavor and staff unfriendly. Wasn't horrible but there are much better options.

Artichoke flatbread: nice and crispy. Cheesy. Well done Ai Funghi Pasta: excellent! The Marsala cream sauce is a great accompaniment to the homemade pappardelle. Pasta was a perfect al dente. Sausage was nice and salty, overall a very well balanced dish. Basilico: The gnocchi was well executed, very pillowy and creamy on the inside. The tomato sauce with the sausage was also excellent. Flounder: the fish was perfectly cooked, I mean perfectly cooked. The lemon butter was so good, the sautéed spinach was vibrant and green, they know what they're doing. The service was great, friendly, and made excellent recommendations. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for an Italian place who can make a variety of dishes and do it well. read more

we came late and he made a fresh piazza just for us.... with a big smile. a real nice hometown atmosphere

Food exceptional, service staff very attentive, quantity impossible to go hungry. This was our 1st experience here. Certainly will not be our last . If you enjoy Italian give them a try. Steve & Robin read more

We had an outstanding take home meal from Basilico's. We had the Fico salad and Gnocchi and Bolognese Pasta entrees. The salad was a real treat, the balsamic glaze was perfect, arugula, figs and goat cheese were "spot on". The bolognese with the curley pappardelle complimented each other. The curled pasta held the wonderful Bolognese for every bite, the ricotta on top is a great accompaniment to the dish. Ahhh...the Gnocchi was fresh, plump with a terrific pink sauce. More than ample portions. Our compliments to the chef and his wonderful wife. read more

OMG! This place is amazing. My husband and I went for their Sunday brunch last weekend. Everything on the menu looked so amazing that I had a hard time deciding what to get. We shared the Berry Crostini which was absolutely incredible. I had the Pizza Fritta which had the best sauce I have ever tasted. And, you can't go wrong with fried pizza dough. My hubby had the vegetable fritatta that was loaded with tons of veggie goodness. The portions were very generous. I would highly recommend Basilico, not only for brunch, but dinner as well. It's authentic italian at its finest. read more

Go eat here immediately! The food was so fresh and delicious. The staff was friendly and attentive. A reservation would be a good idea because it's a smaller place. It's BYOB. This place is going to do very well! read more

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This place is amazing!!! From start to finish our experience was magnificent. The staff is friendly, the food is fresh and authentic and the decor is beautiful. I enjoyed it so much while I was eating I made reservations to come back! Great job guys! read more

Cafe Basilico - Italian Near Me - Hillsborough Township, New Jersey

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My husband and I had an early dinner tonight at Basilico and it was absolutely delicious. We had a Manila clam appetizer, which was a special, and peach and stracciatella crostini. Both were huge portions and very fresh. The clams were tender and cooked in a buttery garlic broth with cherry tomatoes and Italian sweet peppers, and there was plenty of crusty Italian bread for dipping in the broth. I got the fettuccini in a Marsala cream sauce with sausage, mushrooms and burrata, and my husband had fettuccini Bolognese with ricotta. The portion size was just right. For dessert, we had cappuccinos and shared a very rich and tasty tiramisu. We had been wanting to try Basilico ever since it opened and are so glad we made it there this evening. And it is BYOB to boot. We will definitely be back. Hope they add a few more meat entrees or maybe change up the entree selection with the seasons. read more