Roman Village and Antonio’s Cucina Italiana celebrated 60 years of family, food and hospitality in 2024.
Hour Detroit’s company milestone feature shares the story of Antonio and Enrica “Rita” Rugiero, two Italian immigrants who built a new life and family in Metro Detroit. In 1964, Antonio purchased the small Dearborn pizzeria that would become Roman Village. His pizza recipe helped establish the restaurant’s reputation, while Rita’s recipes and influence expanded its menu and Italian traditions.
Their four sons grew up inside the business, folding pizza boxes, washing dishes and learning the value of hard work. As adults, they helped carry the company forward and establish the familiar Antonio’s Cucina Italiana name in additional Metro Detroit communities.
Despite that growth, each location remains connected by shared recipes, standards and family leadership. Homemade pasta, fresh-baked bread, hearty sauces, soups and traditional entrées continue to be prepared with the same commitment to quality that shaped the original restaurant.
Six decades later, the third generation of the Rugiero family is helping continue the tradition. The milestone celebrates everyone who contributed to that journey, including generations of employees and guests who became part of the extended Roman Village and Antonio’s family.