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Antonio Roman Village Roman Village

Breaking Bread with Mamma Rita

traditionPhotoThe tradition lives on at Antonio’s. Dishes such as calamari, polenta, manicotti, lasagna, eggplant parmigiana, baccala and tender Provimi veal chops broiled to perfection or veal parmigiana just to name a few traditional, authentic dishes to feast on at Antonio’s Cucina Italiana.

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Tony takes over Joe’s pizzeria (1964)


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Our mother and father’s wedding day at Roman Village (1965). They prepared their own reception meal prior to the celebration.


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Mamma Rita cooking it up on the new stove (1965)


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Tony celebrates the first of many renovations (1969)


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The Rugiero Family gathers for Sunday Brunch after mass (2007)


Anthony Rugiero, Andrea Bocelli, Sharon Gioia,
Dr. David DiChiera at the Restaurant


Andrea visited us many times, as seen here preparing one of his favorite dishes, Spaghetti Carbonara, which is now featured on our menu as Spaghetti Carbonara “Alla Bocelli”.


The Rugiero Family and Andrea Bocelli at their restaurant


The Bocelli and Rugiero family break bread


On Antonio’s visit to the Vatican, He receives a blessing from the Holy Father Pope Benedict


The community joins the Capuchins for St. Antonio's feast Day

The community joins the Capuchins for St. Antonio’s feast Day


Il Volo stops in for dinner

Il Volo stops in for dinner


Il Volo and the Rugiero family

Il Volo and the Rugiero family


Nonna's grandchildren learn to prepare the Porchetta for new Year's Eve family celebration

Nonna’s grandchildren learn to prepare the Porchetta for new Year’s Eve family celebration


Mamma Rita is presented with honor with Mayor O' Reilly and Wayne County Executive

Mamma Rita is presented with honor with
Mayor O’ Reilly and Wayne County Executive


Mamma Rita prepares a feast for Mickely Trepetny and Tony Renis

Mamma Rita prepares a feast for Michele Torpendine and Tony Renis


Mamma celebrates 50 years coming to America

Mamma celebrates 50 years coming to America


Mamma Rita is cooking in the kitchen

Mamma Rita is cooking in the kitchen

Piero thanks Mamma Rita for cooking his favorite dishes

Piero Barone of Il Volo thanks Mamma Rita for cooking his favorite dishes


Mamma Rita

Enrica Rugiero to be honored at Spark of Hope Tribute Gala
Apr 17, 2019

Enrica “Mama Rita” Rugiero, owner of Roman Village-Antonio’s Cucina Italiana will be honored at the 46th annual Life Directions Spark of Hope Tribute Gala May 18 in the Renaissance Center.

Rugiero, one of two women being honored by the peer-to-peer mentor non-profit Life Directions, will be presented the Guiding Light award for showing that the American Dream is made possible through hard work, according to a Life Directions press release.

The other is Kathleen McCann, executive chairman of United Road, who will be presented the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Successful in the business of serving others, they have fashioned a legacy of compassion, according to the press release.

“The leadership of these two women shows how hard work and consistent values radiate joy and hope,” said the Rev. John Phelps, president & CEO of Life Directions. “They have shown many how to turn obstacles into opportunities, downsizing into dreaming and discouragement into determination. Both have ‘gone the extra mile’ countless times for the community, its young people and Life Directions.”

The gala will feature dinner, live and silent auctions, entertainment and the company of member students and like-minded philanthropic leaders.

“The money raised from the Spark of Hope gala will help Life Directions continue its work of inspiring and mentoring young students to become mindful and active members of the community,” said Jim Schmid, event chair and managing director, Resolutions Experts, PC. “Its programs work with young adults, parents, neighbors and elders to collaboratively advocate for the success of our youth.”

 

Mamma Rita is Honored as Woman of the Year by Ilica October 26, 2019


ILICA MOM AND VINCE 2 2019

Mamma Rita is greeted by event Chairman and Founder of ILICA Vincenzo Marra.


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Mamma receives her Woman of the Year Award.


ILICA ADRIANNA'S SPEACH 2 2019

Adrianna at the podium speaking on behalf of the grandchildren as Antonio looks on.


At the red carpet Gala Antonio, Sabrina, Vanessa, Mamma Rita, Antonio, Attilio, Adrianna, Makylaand, Sharon Gioia 2

At the Red Carpet Gala Antonio, Sabrina, Vanessa, Mamma Rita, Antonio, Attilio, Adriana, Makylaand and Sharon Gioia.


Patrick, Laurie, Sabrina, Adrianna and Makylaand

Patrick, Laurie, Sabrina, Adrianna and Makyla and proudly watching Mamma receive her award.