Roma Cafe

Imagine an era when traditional American Italian cuisine was served on red checkered tablecloths and the food was hearty, unfussy, delicious, and presented in an elegant yet comfortable, intimate family setting. The Roma is a throwback to those traditional Italian restaurants. While paying tribute to great restaurants of decades past, The Roma embraces the techniques of the present. Our menu features delicious classics such as chicken Parmesan, traditional Bolognese, clams casino, lobster fra diavolo, calamari, and classic Italian desserts like tiramisu, cannolis, panna cotta, and zeppole. Our casual dining room also offers simple, iconic cocktails, local craft beers, and an unpretentious, affordable Italian wine list. We’ve taken staple Italian dishes and elevated them with modern flavors and locally sourced, fresh ingredients in a classic, family-friendly, casual dining atmosphere. The Roma is the vision of Mike Fraser of local favorites Bramhall, Rhum Food + Grog, and Big J’s Chicken Shack, and Chef/Partner Anders Tallberg, previously of Roustabout. Roma is located directly above Bramhall, a modern speakeasy and basement bar dwelling in the Rines Mansion at 767 Congress Street. The mansion, designed by noted Portland architect Francis Fassett and built in 1887, is rich in West End Portland history and the perfect home for The Roma. The Roma is open daily for dinner, Sunday through Thursday from 5-9:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5-10 p.m. A private room is also available for larger groups.