North Tonawanda, nestled along the Niagara River, is a community where local flavor meets cherished traditions. Among its culinary gems, Roman Cafe stands out as a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.
Known for its inviting ambiance and menu brimming with Italian-American classics, Roman Cafe captures the spirit of homestyle cooking with a flair that keeps diners returning. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch, a hearty dinner, or a celebratory meal with friends and family, the extensive offerings at Roman Cafe ensure there’s something for every palate.
The menu is a mosaic of enduring favorites—hearty pasta dishes, hand-tossed pizzas, savory sandwiches, and delectable desserts, all crafted with attention to quality and freshness.
Dining at Roman Cafe is more than just enjoying a meal; it’s about embracing a tradition of hospitality and flavor that has become a staple in North Tonawanda. Each dish tells a story, blending old-world recipes with local ingredients and a modern approach to comfort food.
As you explore the highlights of Roman Cafe’s menu, you’ll discover a world of culinary delights that cater to a range of tastes and occasions. From the first bite to the final sip of coffee, the experience is one that lingers, inviting you to return time and again.
Appetizers: Setting the Stage for a Memorable Meal
Every great dining experience begins with anticipation, and Roman Cafe’s appetizer selection is designed to whet the appetite and introduce guests to the flavors that await. The menu features classic starters with a signature twist, blending familiar tastes with fresh presentation.
From the moment you take your seat, the aroma of baked garlic and herbs signals that something special is about to unfold. The appetizers are crafted to share, making them perfect for groups or those who want to sample a variety of flavors before the main course.
Each plate arrives with an inviting presentation that beckons diners to dig in.
Favorites like Stuffed Banana Peppers, Fried Calamari, and Bruschetta are perennial crowd-pleasers. The Banana Peppers are filled with creamy cheese and a blend of Italian herbs, then oven-baked to perfection.
Calamari is lightly breaded and paired with a tangy marinara sauce, offering a crispy bite with each forkful. The Bruschetta features toasted bread topped with vine-ripened tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Stuffed Banana Peppers: A blend of creamy cheeses and herbs, baked until golden
- Fried Calamari: Lightly breaded rings served with house-made marinara
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread with tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze
- Mozzarella Sticks: Crispy and gooey, perfect for dipping
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery, and aromatic
“Our appetizers are crafted to awaken your senses and set the tone for a truly memorable meal.” — Roman Cafe Chef
Pasta Specialties: Heart and Soul of the Menu
At the core of Roman Cafe’s offerings are its pasta specialties, which showcase the rich heritage of Italian cuisine. These dishes are more than comfort food—they embody the traditions passed down through generations and are prepared with care.
The pasta menu spans timeless classics and inventive creations, ensuring there’s a dish for every preference. Whether you crave the creamy indulgence of Alfredo or the robust flavors of a slow-simmered Marinara, each plate is a celebration of texture and taste.
The pasta is cooked to a perfect al dente, and the sauces are simmered daily to enhance their depth of flavor.
Signature favorites include Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna, and Fettuccine Alfredo. The Chicken Parmigiana features a tender chicken breast, breaded and topped with melted mozzarella, then nestled in a bed of spaghetti and house-made marinara.
Lasagna layers hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese between sheets of pasta, while Fettuccine Alfredo offers a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every strand.
- Chicken Parmigiana: Breaded chicken, marinara, mozzarella, served over pasta
- Lasagna: Layers of pasta, meat sauce, ricotta, and cheese
- Fettuccine Alfredo: Fettuccine tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce
- Spaghetti & Meatballs: A classic pairing with savory marinara and tender meatballs
| Pasta Dish | Sauce | Main Protein |
| Chicken Parmigiana | Marinara | Chicken |
| Lasagna | Meat Sauce | Beef & Cheese |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | Alfredo | None (add Chicken/Shrimp optional) |
| Spaghetti & Meatballs | Marinara | Beef Meatballs |
Pizza Perfection: Hand-Tossed and Flavorful
Roman Cafe’s pizza selection is a highlight for many guests, offering a delicious range of options crafted with fresh dough, vibrant sauces, and quality toppings. Each pizza is hand-tossed and baked to achieve just the right balance of crispy crust and chewy interior.
The pizzas are available in both traditional and specialty varieties, accommodating classic tastes as well as those in search of something unique. From a simple Margherita to a fully loaded Meat Lovers, every pie is customizable and perfect for sharing.
Signature creations like the Roman Deluxe and White Pizza are customer favorites. The Roman Deluxe features pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, and onions, while the White Pizza offers a garlic olive oil base with ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach.
Each pizza can be personalized with extra cheese, various meats, or a selection of fresh vegetables.
- Roman Deluxe: Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions
- Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil
- White Pizza: Garlic olive oil, ricotta, mozzarella, spinach
- Buffalo Chicken: Grilled chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch drizzle
“Our pizzas are crafted with passion, using only the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques.” — Roman Cafe Owner
Sandwiches and Subs: Lunch and Dinner Favorites
For those craving something handheld and hearty, Roman Cafe’s sandwiches and subs stand out as satisfying choices. Perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, these selections combine robust flavors with convenience and comfort.
The sandwich menu is diverse, ranging from classic Italian subs to hot, melty paninis. Each sandwich is built on freshly baked bread and loaded with premium meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Meatball Sub or a Chicken Cutlet Panini, there’s a sandwich to suit every craving.
Italian Subs
The Italian Sub is a staple, featuring layers of salami, ham, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and a splash of Italian dressing. Served cold or toasted, this sub delivers authentic deli flavor in every bite.
For a warm option, the Meatball Sub is topped with marinara and mozzarella, then baked until bubbly.
- Italian Sub: Salami, ham, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato, Italian dressing
- Meatball Sub: House-made meatballs, marinara, mozzarella
- Chicken Cutlet Panini: Breaded chicken, roasted peppers, provolone, arugula
- Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich: Breaded eggplant, marinara, melted cheese
| Sandwich | Main Ingredients | Served Hot/Cold |
| Italian Sub | Salami, ham, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato | Cold |
| Meatball Sub | Beef meatballs, marinara, mozzarella | Hot |
| Chicken Cutlet Panini | Breaded chicken, roasted peppers, provolone | Hot |
| Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich | Breaded eggplant, marinara, cheese | Hot |
All sandwiches are served with a side of house-made chips or a crisp salad, adding balance and freshness to every meal.
Salads and Lighter Fare: Freshness in Every Bite
For diners seeking a lighter option without sacrificing flavor, Roman Cafe’s salad menu offers vibrant and satisfying choices. These salads are thoughtfully composed, featuring crisp greens, garden-fresh vegetables, and house-made dressings that elevate every forkful.
The Antipasto Salad is a standout, combining mixed greens with Italian meats, provolone, olives, and pepperoncini. The Caesar Salad delivers a classic combination of romaine, parmesan, and croutons, tossed in creamy Caesar dressing.
Guests can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak to any salad for added protein and heartiness.
Signature Salads
Roman Cafe also offers seasonal salads, incorporating local produce and inventive toppings. The Mediterranean Salad features feta, kalamata olives, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette, while the Caprese Salad showcases ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
- Antipasto Salad: Mixed greens, Italian meats, provolone, olives
- Caesar Salad: Romaine, parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing
- Mediterranean Salad: Feta, olives, cucumbers, lemon-oregano vinaigrette
- Caprese Salad: Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze
“We believe fresh ingredients are the foundation of every great salad, and we take pride in sourcing the best local produce.” — Roman Cafe Manager
Salads can be enjoyed as a light meal or paired with a main course for a balanced dining experience.
Entrées and Chef’s Specials: Elevating the Experience
Beyond the familiar, Roman Cafe’s entrées and Chef’s Specials showcase the kitchen’s creativity and commitment to quality. These dishes are designed for those seeking something a bit more refined, highlighting premium proteins and flavorful accompaniments.
The Veal Marsala is a beloved choice, featuring tender veal sautéed with mushrooms in a rich Marsala wine sauce. The Eggplant Rollatini offers a vegetarian delight, with thin-sliced eggplant rolled around ricotta and herbs, baked in marinara and topped with melted mozzarella.
For seafood lovers, the Shrimp Scampi presents sautéed shrimp in garlic, lemon, and white wine, served over a bed of linguine.
Chef’s Specials
Regularly updated Chef’s Specials highlight seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques. From slow-roasted pork loin with apple compote to house-made gnocchi with wild mushroom ragu, these limited-time offerings keep the menu exciting and dynamic.
- Veal Marsala: Veal cutlets, mushrooms, Marsala wine sauce
- Eggplant Rollatini: Ricotta-filled eggplant in marinara
- Shrimp Scampi: Sautéed shrimp, garlic, lemon, white wine, linguine
- Chef’s Seasonal Entrée: Rotating selection based on fresh market finds
| Entrée | Main Protein | Signature Sauce/Preparation |
| Veal Marsala | Veal | Marsala wine, mushrooms |
| Eggplant Rollatini | Eggplant (vegetarian) | Ricotta filling, marinara, mozzarella |
| Shrimp Scampi | Shrimp | Garlic, lemon, white wine, linguine |
| Chef’s Seasonal Entrée | Varies | Market-driven |
“Our Chef’s Specials are inspired by the season and the bounty of local farms. We love introducing new flavors to our guests.” — Roman Cafe Chef
Desserts and After-Dinner Treats: A Sweet Finish
No meal at Roman Cafe is complete without a satisfying dessert. The dessert menu is a celebration of Italian and American classics, offering something for every sweet tooth.
Each treat is made in-house or sourced from local bakeries renowned for their quality.
The Tiramisu is a standout, featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa. Cannoli are crisp and filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips, while the Chocolate Lava Cake offers a decadent, molten center.
Seasonal pies and cheesecakes provide additional variety for guests seeking something a little different.
Coffee and Cordials
The experience is further enhanced with a selection of freshly brewed coffees, espresso, cappuccino, and after-dinner cordials. These beverages pair beautifully with dessert and provide a relaxing close to the meal.
- Tiramisu: Espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone, cocoa dust
- Cannoli: Crisp pastry, sweet ricotta filling
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm cake with a molten chocolate center
- Cheesecake: Creamy and rich, often with seasonal fruit toppings
“A well-crafted dessert is the perfect ending to any meal. We take pride in every sweet detail.” — Roman Cafe Pastry Chef
Beverages and Pairings: Sips to Complement Every Dish
Roman Cafe’s beverage menu is designed to enhance the flavors of its cuisine. The selection includes a thoughtfully curated wine list, domestic and imported beers, specialty cocktails, and non-alcoholic options for all ages.
Wines are chosen to pair seamlessly with Italian dishes, from a crisp Pinot Grigio that complements seafood to a robust Chianti that stands up to hearty pasta. The beer list offers both local craft brews and familiar favorites, perfect for casual gatherings or pizza night.
Cocktails are crafted with fresh ingredients, adding a modern twist to classic recipes.
Popular Pairings
For pasta dishes, a glass of red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti enhances the richness of the sauce. Lighter salads and seafood are best enjoyed with a chilled white, while a cold lager or pilsner pairs well with pizza and sandwiches.
- Pinot Grigio: Pairs with seafood and salads
- Chianti: Ideal with red sauce pasta and meats
- Craft Beer: Complements pizza and hearty sandwiches
- Espresso: Perfect after dessert for a classic Italian finish
| Beverage | Suggested Pairing | Flavor Profile |
| Pinot Grigio | Shrimp Scampi, Mediterranean Salad | Crisp, citrusy |
| Chianti | Lasagna, Chicken Parmigiana | Medium-bodied, earthy |
| Craft Pilsner | Margherita Pizza | Light, refreshing |
| Espresso | Tiramisu, Cannoli | Bold, rich |
“Our drink menu is carefully curated to complement each dish and complete your dining experience.” — Roman Cafe Beverage Team
Conclusion: The Roman Cafe Experience in North Tonawanda
Roman Cafe in North Tonawanda offers more than just a meal—it provides a welcoming space where friends and families gather to celebrate the timeless joy of good food. The menu, crafted with care and an eye for both tradition and innovation, ensures that every guest can find something to love.
From the first bite of a shared appetizer to the last sip of espresso, each moment is infused with warmth, quality, and a sense of community.
Whether you’re a local regular or a first-time visitor, Roman Cafe’s inviting atmosphere and diverse menu invite you to linger, savor, and create memories. The commitment to fresh ingredients, generous portions, and attentive service sets the standard for Italian-American dining in the region.
Every visit is an opportunity to try something new or revisit a favorite dish, knowing that the flavors and hospitality will always be consistent. For those seeking a genuine taste of North Tonawanda’s culinary scene, Roman Cafe remains a cherished destination—one where every meal is an occasion worth celebrating.
