Roma Ristorante Italiano

Dsc 9051

To properly romance your Valentine there are three main essentials: flowers, a box of fine chocolates, and, most importantly, a candle-lit dinner for two. Roma’s Ristorante Italiano can help with the last one.

Located inside the Alonzo Ward Hotel, Roma Ristorante Italiano’s offers a fine Italian dining experience like no other. Cousins and co-owners Raffi Smajli and Tony Avdiu opened Roma’s on February 13th, 2013. Before coming to Aberdeen, Raffi owned an Italian restaurant in Mid-Cities, Texas, while Tony worked at an Italian restaurant in Brookings. When they were offered the space, there were many obstacles in the way. The biggest one was getting Raffi to relocate to South Dakota. After three months of deliberation, they decided to open up what is now called Roma. The two cousins chose to open an Italian restaurant not only because of their talent for making decadent Italian cuisine, but also because authentic Italian food is what they grew up eating and loving.

The menu is very diverse, including numerous pasta dishes as well as subs like the Philly Cheese Steak, pizzas, and dishes that feature chicken, veal, and seafood. One of the more popular entrées is the Frutti Di Mare, which includes shrimp, baby clams, and mussels, all tossed in their special marinara sauce and served over linguine pasta. They also offer a wide range of wines to compliment your meal, suited to anyone’s taste and budget.

Dinner is the busiest time during the week, but the little restaurant is most alive on weekends. Roma has an intimate atmosphere with a capacity of just seventy and a very elegant feel. Every detail of the restaurant’s design exudes the romance reminiscent of Italy. It’s the perfect place to take your date on Valentine’s Day and enjoy the “Sweetheart’s Meal” special. The special includes an appetizer, two main dishes, and a dessert for two.

Roma’s Ristorante Italiano is a go-to location for a date any night of the year, and a great place for lunches as well. With a huge variety of amazing food and wine menu to match, there is just so much to love.