Dearborn has a rich history of stories about immigrant families who have come to our city and established small restaurants to feed the neighborhood and workers at Ford Motor Co.

The Rugiero family are one of those great success stories. And this year their restaurant, the Roman Village, marks its 45th anniversary in the south side of Dearborn at 9924 Dix, east of Miller Road.

Enrica Rugiero and her husband Antonio came to America in 1962 and two years later borrowed $2,000 to open a small pizzeria and Roman Village was born. Antonia recently passed away but Enrica and her son, Antonio Rugiero Jr., continue the tradition of serving some of the best Italian food in Metro Detroit.

Today the family has four restaurants — the original Roman Village Cucina Italiana plus Antonio’s Cucina Italianas in Dearborn Heights, Canton and Farmington Hills.

In this interview with Dearborn Councilwoman Nancy Hubbard, Enrica Rugiero and her son, Antonio Rugiero Jr., talk about the secrets of their success.

As part of their 45th anniversary celebration, the family through April 17 is offering patrons a meal for 45 cents when you purchase the first one at regular price. Throughout the remainder of the year, the restaurant will continue to offers specials as part of its anniversary. As Antonio Rugiero Jr. says, “my father always said that it is very important to give back to those who have been there to support you in the last 45 years.”

If you haven’t had a chance to visit Roman Village, we strongly recommend you do. It is one of those hidden gems in Dearborn. For more information you can call the restaurant at 313-842-2100 or get directions by clicking HERE