The Story Behind Roma Ristorante Italiano

Roma Ristorante Italiano got its name from the capital of Italy, Rome. We felt that Roma would be an appropriate name for our business. It allowed us to take a piece of Italy here to America so that we could share its beauty, heritage and traditions especially with the people of Virginia.

Let me tell you a little bit about how our business got started. Anthony Giambanco and his parents came from Palermo, Italy to the states in 1968 and settled in Brooklyn, New York. Anthony started working in many different restaurants and pizzerias where he learned his trade. One day Anthony realized that something had to be done in order to have his family working together, so he decided to go on a journey to find the perfect location for their family restaurant. While traveling through several different states they came across a small town of Tappahannock, Virginia. That is where the first Roma Ristorante was opened in 1976. While Mamma made her traditional homemade sauces, Papa helped out with the cooking and Anthony made pizzas and also helped out with the preparations adding a special touch. People loved it! Fresh, homemade food at its best!

After establishing their name and becoming a well known restaurant due to their outstanding reputation, business started booming so Anthony, his wife and four children opened another location on Staples Mill Road in 1993 leaving his brother John to run the Tappahannock location. The menu then featured dishes such as pizzas, subs, spaghetti and lasagna. Roma Ristorante Staples Mill now offers the basics and also has expanded their menu to include authentic Italian dishes such as Pasta Puttanesca, Pesto, Vodka, Tango, steaks, seafood, specialty pizzas and may other dishes. Anthony is passing his talents on to his children, the future "Roma generation." If you are in the Rappahannock River area visit our Tappahannock location where it all started or if you are in the city visit us on Staples Mill Road. We invite you to come and be a part of our family! Buon Appettito Amici!

The Giambanco family would like to say "Grazie" to all of their loyal patrons for so many successful years. Thank You!

The Giambanco Family