Roma's Italian Restaurant

What Makes Roma's a Taste of Italy in Ocala?

Roma's Italian Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Ocala's dining scene for over two decades, bringing authentic Italian-American cuisine to northwest Marion County. Founded by Lorenzo Del Giudice, who emigrated from Italy and began working in the restaurant business at age 16, Roma's carries forward a genuine Italian culinary tradition. Lorenzo operated restaurants in New York, Ohio, and Florida before establishing Roma's in Ocala, and his legacy lives on through recipes that have been passed down through the family for generations.

The menu at Roma's reflects old-world Italian cooking with an American appetite in mind. Hand-tossed pizza baked in an authentic stone oven is a centerpiece of the menu, producing a crisp crust and even char that keeps regulars coming back week after week. Beyond pizza, the kitchen turns out hearty Italian entrees including veal parmesan, chicken marsala, chicken parmesan, and a lasagna that locals consistently rank among the best in the area. Each sauce is made in-house using imported Italian tomatoes, olives, and spices, giving every dish a depth of flavor that separates Roma's from chain Italian restaurants.

The restaurant occupies a welcoming space on NW 49th Avenue with both a comfortable indoor dining room and a spacious outdoor patio. The patio is pet-friendly, a feature that makes Roma's a popular choice among Ocala residents who want to bring their dogs along for dinner. Inside, the atmosphere strikes a balance between casual neighborhood restaurant and special-occasion destination. A fully stocked bar rounds out the experience, offering wine, beer, and cocktails to pair with your meal.

Roma's serves only the finest selection of meats and seafood, carefully prepared with quality oils, fresh herbs, and spices. The antipasto salad is a frequent recommendation from regulars, loaded with Italian meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables. Pasta dishes range from simple spaghetti and meatballs to more elaborate preparations featuring seafood and house-made sauces. The menu also includes calzones, stromboli, Italian subs, and a full selection of appetizers, making it easy for every member of the family to find something they enjoy.

For Ocala families looking for a reliable neighborhood Italian restaurant with genuine recipes and consistent quality, Roma's delivers. The combination of imported ingredients, stone-oven baked pizza, classic Italian entrees, and a warm family atmosphere has earned Roma's a loyal following in the community. Whether you're stopping in for a quick lunch, celebrating a family dinner, or ordering takeout after a long day, Roma's Italian Restaurant offers an honest Italian dining experience that has stood the test of time in Ocala.