Roma & Sul Tempo, Our Story

By Kristin & Joe Garramone, Jr.

Roma Restaurant is a perfect interpretation of a classic, upscale Italian Eatery. Opening their doors for the first time in 1973, Giuseppe Garramone brought a wealth of knowledge in regards to food and business to Dover Delaware. Born in a small town in Southern Italy Guiseppe moved to New York at the age of 18 to develop his skills as a chef. 16 years later he took that knowledge and passion to Dover Delaware and opened Roma Italian Ristorante. Initially opening as a casual pizzeria, Roma evolved quickly into the premier special occasion, white linen eatery it has continued to be given various awards and accolades through the years.

Son, Joseph S. Garramone Jr. began working under his father in the kitchen at the young age of 12. Joe Jr. worked his way up over the years ultimately taking over the company in 2000. With his father’s drive and blessing Joe focused on keeping the quality of food and service that built the Roma name. Evolution for Roma has not stopped. Keeping with the tradition his father started, Joe Jr. was ready to add his own mark on the company. Teaming up with long time industry professional and wife Kristin, they decided to drive forward with a twist to the vision. Their “twist,” Sul Tempo Cocktail lounge. Opening in December of 2015, Dover welcomed its very first Cocktail Lounge focusing on house fusions, Boutique Cocktails, Small Plates and Craft Beers. The rustic yet refined aesthetic is something Dover had yet to experience. The aroma of the Cedar Plank Smoke and sliding Barn Doors pairs perfectly with the stone veneer and upscale décor.

Now in its 47th year, Roma continues to grow and evolve and looks forward to the future. Please have your family join ours for an amazing dining experience.

  Cheers, Joe and Kristin Garramone

Testimonial

“Roma Italian Ristorante brings a little slice of Italy to Central Delaware. Choosing only the freshest and finest ingredients, Joe and Kristin Garramone have created a place where customers enjoy not only the best in Italian cuisine, but incredibly warm hospitality in keeping with old-world family traditions. The exquisite flavors produced by Chef Joe in Roma’s kitchen are consistent and well-executed. Building on what his father, Giuseppe, began in 1973, Chef Joe’s amazing sauces and authentic recipes provide customers with a high-quality dining experience every time. Director of Operations, Kristin Garramone, with her amazing culinary background and wide array of experiences at every level, displays an unmatched passion for hospitality. Her standards are high – she expects nothing less than excellence. She wants more than anything for each and every customer to have an amazing experience at Roma from beginning to end. Joe and Kris both put an amazing amount of heart into everything they do. I feel very fortunate that they are part of our community and am grateful for the uniquely delicious and thoughtful dining experience they bring to Central Delaware.”  ~ CCCD