In 2019, the Rugiero family celebrated 55 years of serving Metro Detroit with recipes and traditions that began at Roman Village in 1964.
The family’s story began when Antonio Rugiero Sr. immigrated to the United States from San Giovanni in Fiore in southern Italy. After purchasing a small pizzeria in Dearborn, Antonio used his pizza recipe and relentless work ethic to build a loyal following. His wife, Enrica “Rita” Rugiero, brought her own culinary traditions from Gubbio, Italy, and helped shape the dishes that would become family favorites.
Their four sons grew up working in the restaurant and learning every part of the business. Together, the next generation expanded the family’s presence with Antonio’s Cucina Italiana while protecting the recipes and hospitality established by their parents.
The Hour Detroit anniversary feature celebrates the family members, employees and guests who contributed to more than five decades of success. It also reflects the deeper values behind the restaurants: faith, sacrifice, hard work, generosity and the belief that meals are meant to bring people together.
Those values remain at the heart of Roman Village and Antonio’s today.