Boston's North End is getting a new look thanks to a restaurateur's commitment.

Frank Depasquale, owner of more than a dozen restaurants like Trattoria Il Panino and Umbria, has long dreamed of transforming the entrance at Cross Street and Salem Street into something more authentically Italian.

"I've been thinking about this since I was a little kid when I first came here," Depasquale said. "I basically come here every single morning and I stare at it. I don't sleep at night, trying to think of how I can make it really Italy."

The area is currently covered in scaffolding, but is set to host a string of Italian stores, including jewelry, men's clothing, Italian hangbangs, shoes, and a baby clothing store. He also plans to have a cafe, a travel agency from Rome, and a new Italian fusion r

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