Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Serriteno.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Melissa, and my journey has been one of perseverance, passion, and family. Together with my husband, Carlos Pacheco, we’ve dedicated ourselves to building Caruso’s Tuscan Cuisine in Capitola. What started as a dream became a family-run restaurant where we’ve spent years creating homemade Italian food and welcoming guests like they’re part of our family.
Owning a small restaurant hasn’t always been easy. We’ve faced economic challenges, slow seasons, and the everyday demands that come with running a business. Through it all, Carlos and I have learned to rely on each other, work hard, and never lose sight of why we started. Every obstacle has made us stronger and reminded us how important our customers and our community are to us.
Today, Caruso’s is more than just a restaurant—it’s a reflection of our family’s dedication, resilience, and love for bringing people together over a great meal. I’m proud of everything we’ve built alongside Carlos, and I’m excited to continue growing, serving our community, and creating lasting memories for everyone who walks through our doors
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many small business owners, we’ve faced our share of challenges. There have been slow seasons, unexpected expenses, and times when it felt like we were constantly trying to stay one step ahead. Running a restaurant means long hours, making sacrifices, and carrying the responsibility not only for your family but also for your employees and customers.
There were moments when we questioned whether we could keep going, but giving up was never an option. Every challenge taught us something—how to adapt, how to be resourceful, and how important it is to lean on each other. Through all the ups and downs, Carlos and I have stayed committed to Caruso’s because we truly love what we do and the community we’ve built around the restaurant.
Looking back, those struggles shaped us into stronger business owners and stronger partners. They taught us resilience, gratitude, and to appreciate every customer who walks through our doors
We’ve been impressed with Caruso’s Tuscan Cuisine, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Caruso’s Tuscan Cuisine is a family-owned Italian restaurant located in the heart of Capitola Village. Since opening our doors, our mission has been simple: serve authentic, homemade Italian food in a warm and welcoming atmosphere where every guest feels like family.
What sets us apart is that we make our food fresh to order using quality ingredients and traditional recipes. We believe that great food takes time, and we never cut corners. From our handmade sauces and pasta dishes to our desserts, we take pride in every plate that leaves the kitchen. We also offer gluten-free and vegetarian options so more people can enjoy dining with us.
More than anything, we’re known for our hospitality. Many of our guests have become longtime friends, and we love seeing families celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and special moments with us year after year. That sense of community is something we value deeply.
What I’m most proud of is that Caruso’s has remained a place where people can slow down, enjoy a great meal, and create memories together. As a family-owned business, every customer who walks through our doors means something to us. We aren’t just serving food—we’re creating an experience built on quality, authenticity, and genuine hospitality, and that’s what we hope people remember every time they visit Caruso’s.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’d like readers to know that supporting small businesses truly makes a difference. Behind every family-owned restaurant are people who pour their hearts into what they do every single day. Every customer who chooses to dine with us helps support not only our family but also the employees and local community that have been part of our journey.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported Caruso’s over the years\. Whether you’ve been visiting us since we opened or you’re planning your first visit, we appreciate every meal shared, every recommendation, and every kind word. Those connections are what have kept us going through both the good times and the challenging ones.
Our hope is that when people visit Caruso’s, they leave with more than just a great meal. We want them to feel welcomed, cared for, and excited to come back .Thank you to our loyal guests and to everyone who believes in supporting local businesses—we couldn’t do it without you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @carusos_capitola
