New Businesses Are Opening in Downtown North Adams. Seriously.
If you’ve heard someone say “there’s nothing going on downtown,” tell them to take a walk, literally.
This summer is shaping up to be an exciting one for North Adams, with new businesses opening, vacant storefronts coming back to life, and fresh investments creating new reasons to spend time downtown.
One of the most anticipated openings is Zio Roberto Ristorante and Taverna on Marshall Street. Located in the historic former Mohawk Tavern space, the restaurant combines authentic Italian cuisine, house-made pasta, and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in family traditions. Owner David Moresi has spoken openly about his goal of creating not only a memorable dining experience, but also a destination that encourages visitors to explore downtown and support neighboring businesses. With a beautifully restored dining room, an aperitivo-style lounge, and pasta made fresh onsite each day, Zio Roberto is already generating plenty of buzz.
And that’s just the beginning.
At 90 Main Street, the former TD Bank building is undergoing a dramatic transformation into a new all-day restaurant expected to open later this summer. The concept features indoor and outdoor seating, a highly visible open kitchen, and a warm, contemporary atmosphere designed to encourage people to linger—whether over a morning coffee, a shared meal with friends, or an evening cocktail by the fireplace.
The vision is to create a vibrant gathering place that feels both comfortable and energetic, offering exceptional food and hospitality in a relaxed setting. The space will even feature a contemplative table-shuffleboard experience designed to spark conversation and connection (perhaps even turning strangers into new friends).
Cole Mountain Café has quietly opened its doors in the former West End Market on Route 2 in North Adams, and it already feels like one of those spots people are going to find out about fast.
Run by local beekeeper and egg farmer Stephanie Melito, the café serves up classic breakfast and lunch favorites, coffee, ice cream, and eventually homemade fudge straight from the farm. The space has been transformed into a relaxed walk-up café with seating for about 40, and it’s already seeing curious locals and passersby stopping in to check it out.
Open Wednesday through Sunday, this new addition blends farm roots with a casual neighborhood vibe—and it’s just getting started.
Meanwhile, another exciting retail concept is quietly taking shape on Holden Street. While details are still in the works, visitors can expect a unique shopping experience this summer that will add even more energy and variety to the downtown district. Stay tuned—we’re looking forward to sharing more soon!
These openings build on the momentum already underway across downtown. They represent private investment, entrepreneurial confidence, and a growing belief that North Adams is a place where new ideas can thrive.
Wait, there’s more! The City of North Adams recently announced participation in the Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program, which offers refundable state tax credits to help businesses occupy eligible vacant downtown spaces. The program is designed to encourage even more investment and help bring additional storefronts back to life.
Taken together, these projects tell a story that’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention: downtown North Adams is evolving! New businesses are opening. Entrepreneurs are investing. Historic spaces are finding new purpose. And more announcements are still to come.
In other words, there’s plenty going on downtown. Don’t keep it a secret!
