About Bistro Romano

Modern sensibilities meet culinary tradition at Bistro Romano. Remaining true to Old World roots, the chefs make gnocchi, lobster-stuffed ravioli, and goat-cheese tortellini by hand. They also work with familiar flavors when creating contemporary signature items, such as the roasted half duckling with Barolo-peppercorn sauce and the pan-seared lake perch filet served atop creamy seafood and asparagus risotto. To accompany this menu, the restaurant uncorks bottles and pours glasses from an extensive list that earned a 2013 Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator.

This wine selection resides within the restaurant's underground tunnels—leftover remnants of the Underground Railroad—which serve as one example of the building's deep ties to the past. Originally built in the early 18th century, the building still exudes an old-fashioned charm that Bistro Romano accentuates with historic decor elements. The bar was salvaged from a passenger steamer constructed in 1912. Its ornately Gothic, jade green backing complements the restaurant's dark wood surfaces and rustic brick walls, which hold vintage posters and photographs of the world's first cannoli. Live piano music rings throughout the space on Friday and Saturday evenings, and mystery dinner-theater events let diners participate in the entertainment.