Copyright Joliet, IL Patch
Opened by Hillsborough High School grads, Roman Gourmet Pizzeria recently went viral for its Pizza Volcano. HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — It's been three years since longtime friends and Hillsborough High School graduates Greg Barberi and Bryan Chiaravallo opened Roman Gourmet pizza. Now the restaurant, known for its signature Pizza Volcano, wants to say thank you to the community and customers for their support. "I want to thank Hillsborough," said Barberi to Patch, who said he will be hanging a banner to thank the Township and their customer base. "The customers matter the most. Being a part of this community in Hillsborough for three years now, we do appreciate it." To say thank you, Roman Gourmet is hosting a celebration at 601 Route 206 in the ShopRite shopping center on Saturday, Nov. 1, from noon to 2 p.m., where customers can grab a plain slice of pizza for $1, enjoy music with a DJ, and with appearances by Hillsborough Police Officers and a Hillsborough fire truck. "That's always been a dream of mine since I was young, that when I was ever in a position to have my own place, whatever it is, pizzeria or restaurant, to be able to support, especially our first responders," said Barberi. Barberi noted that he does a lot for the fire department and has a really close relationship with a lot of the officers in town and the PBA. "I try to help out whenever I can, just to show support. And it goes back and forth because then they come here and they frequent the place, and so it goes around," said Barberi. 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. He prides himself on making the restaurant a bright and happy atmosphere for customers. Customers will come into a clean environment with fresh flowers placed on the tables 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. Pizza Volcano However, a customer favorite is the ooey gooey Pizza Volcano. "That was something that was made, invented by Vinny, the previous owner. We just continued it," said Barberi. A Pizza Volcano is essentially like a Stomboli, described as being rolled to resemble a volcano with a hole that is filled with cheese or whichever topping you prefer, then topped with a sauce to imitate lava. "We had people driving from Pennsylvania to come try it," said Barberi. "Those are really popular." There are three volcanos offered including: Volcano with Artichoke, Tomato & Fresh Mozzarella; Volcano with Pepperoni & Sausage; and Volcano with Spinach, Eggplant & Fresh Mozzarella. There is also an option to build your own volcano. For more information, visit instagram.com/theromanhillsboro or facebook.com or myromangourmet.com. Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com
