Roma Café is a quaint restaurant in the heart of Midtown with an authentic Italian feel. Roma opened in 1890, making it Detroit’s oldest restaurant, and one that has continued to grow while being owned and operated by the same family for generations.

Having just vacationed in Italy, I am a self-proclaimed connoisseur of Italian food. The quality of service, along with the building itself, cultivates a charming atmosphere similar to those of the many family owned restaurants we visited in Venice and Rome. They support the city of Detroit by using only the freshest ingredients, sourced directly from Eastern Market!

Upon entering Roma, you will instantly feel hungry after smelling the delicious aromas of rosemary, basil, and oregano coming from the kitchen. When the waiter first came over to the table and set down an entire loaf of steaming hot, freshly cooked bread… I thought I may have died and went to heaven.

After looking at the menu, I knew it would only get better from there. The lasagna is decadent, layered to perfection with ricotta cheese and creamy tomato sauce, topped with a thick layer of mozzarella cheese. The spaghetti, of course, is another classic dish and my personal favorite. The sauce is incredible and flavorful, mixed with diced tomatoes, mushrooms, onion, garlic, green peppers and basil, with Italian sausage and seasoning. It truly offers an authentic Italian flare to an otherwise ordinary dish.

To end the meal, the waiter presents the table with cannolis, a scrumptious, cream-filled pastry with crispy outer-shell and a chocolate drizzle.

I would absolutely recommend Roma Café to anyone looking for a taste of authentic Italy in downtown Detroit. Go and experience the true Italian indulgence without the eight hour plane ride. You will not be disappointed.