Deja vu for diners as Rom's Takeout is closing 13 years after original restaurant went dark
STURBRIDGE — Rom's Takeout/Giovanello's Italian Market will close its doors for the last time on Saturday. And there will be nowhere to get the locally famous Rom's meatballs and spaghetti sauce.
David Roscioli said he's aging and it's time, though to his customers, any time seems too soon. While wishing him a great retirement, they are lamenting the loss of the food they grew to love at the original Rom's, which closed in 2008.
Roscioli said he opened Rom's Takeout 13 years ago, and he's built a loyal customer base over the years by cooking his dad's recipes, most of which are kept only in his head.
"We have such a good following, such good people. I'll miss them," he said, adding that he'll also miss cooking, something he really enjoys.
But there's a new granddaughter who will be a year old in December. Roscioli, the last of five siblings to retire, said he is absolutely smitten with the baby and plans to spend as much time with her as he can.
Original closed in 2008
The original Rom's was a landmark in Sturbridge, serving a variety of fare, but known especially for its Italian food and later a buffet. It was the place for birthday parties, holiday gatherings and a good destination in Central Massachusetts for anyone seeking a great meal.
Roscioli said the exact opening date of the restaurant is somewhat of a mystery, but it was in the 1950s. It started with hot dogs, growing to a popular venue, which often saw lines stretching out the door.
Many young people worked there; waitresses paid their college tuition with the tips they made, Roscioli recalled.
Romaldo Roscioli, David's father, who with other members of the Roscioli family owned the original restaurant, was in business for 56 years.
David said he's not sure what he'll do next; he isn't great at sitting idle and may consider cooking for another restaurant but doesn't want to own a business.
He's also mulling whether he'll create a cookbook. It's something many customers have asked about, and since the recipes aren't written down anywhere, it might be a good idea, he admitted.
Rom's, at 139 Main St., will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Rom's Takeout is closing 13 years after original restaurant went dark in Sturbridge
