A Local Guide to Roma’s Most‑Loved Dishes in Aberdeen
A friendly, dish‑focused guide to help first‑time diners pick what to order at Roma Ristorante Italiano—from shrimp ravioli and chicken parmesan to seafood pastas, sausage & peppers, and gluten‑free options.
Why this guide — and where Roma sits in Aberdeen
Located on Main Street in downtown Aberdeen, Roma Ristorante Italiano brings northern and southern Italian classics to a warm, elegant dining room. Locals consistently praise Roma for authentic flavors, welcoming service from owner Raffi and staff, and a setting that works for date nights, family meals, and small celebrations. This guide highlights the dishes diners mention most often so you can order with confidence on your first visit.
How we picked the most‑loved plates
Selections here are grounded in guest feedback and Roma’s menu focus on pasta, chicken, veal, seafood and pizza. Repeated mentions from customers — both dine‑in and takeout — point to particular standouts. Use these snapshots to match your mood and appetite to a dish you’re likely to enjoy.
Shrimp Ravioli — the seafood pick for many
Several diners single out the shrimp ravioli as a top choice. Expect filled pasta with a pronounced shrimp flavor and a sauce that complements rather than overwhelms the seafood. If you like delicate, seafood‑forward pasta with well‑balanced sauce, this is a natural first‑visit order.
Chicken Parmesan — a classic done well
Chicken Parmesan is often recommended for its crispy breading, authentic tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta alongside. Reviewers describe it as a reliable, comforting entrée—great if you want a familiar Italian favorite executed with attention to texture and flavor.
Lasagna — comforting and authentically styled
Roma’s lasagna gets praise for evoking the traditional Italian recipes diners remember from big‑city neighborhood spots. If you want a hearty, layered pasta with fresh flavors and a nostalgic feel, lasagna is an excellent pick—especially for those who love classic, slow‑baked preparations.
Seafood pastas and the Chicken Scarpariello special
Beyond shrimp ravioli, Roma’s seafood pastas are mentioned as flavorful and well‑prepared, offering options for diners who prefer lighter proteins. The Chicken Scarpariello special is also called out by customers for being particularly delicious—an attractive choice if you want something savory with a bit of regional flair.
Sausage & Peppers — simple, bold, satisfying
For lovers of straightforward Italian homestyle cooking, sausage and peppers gets strong thumbs up from guests. This dish highlights well‑seasoned sausage, sautéed peppers and onions—ideal if you prefer bold, rustic flavors rather than creamy or tomato‑heavy sauces.
Veal, pizza and other hearty options
Diners also praise Roma’s veal preparations and pizza selections. Veal appeals to those who want tender, refined meat dishes, while pizza covers lighter or shareable options. These items are good choices when you want a substantial meal with classic Italian technique.
Vegetarian and gluten‑free considerations
Roma accommodates a range of diets: reviewers note vegetarian‑friendly pasta selections and a gluten‑free penne shrimp option that worked well for GF diners. One guest asked for more GF variety, which suggests Roma is attentive to special requests—ask your server about current GF and vegetarian alternatives when you arrive.
Ambiance, takeout and events — how to match a dish to the occasion
Guests frequently mention Roma’s warm, relaxed atmosphere—crystal chandeliers and friendly service make it a pleasant spot for dates. Takeout is also praised for quick, accurate service, so many favorites travel well if you prefer to eat at home. Roma can host family gatherings and parties in its roomy, bright space; consider lasagna or trays of pasta for larger groups, and pizza or shareable appetizers for a casual spread.
Practical tips for first‑time diners
Start with the warm bread and oil accompaniment many guests enjoy, and don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations based on what you like (seafood, tomato‑based sauces, or something richer). If you prefer a quieter table, request seating toward the back. Keep in mind downtown parking can get busy—plan a few extra minutes on weekend evenings. Above all, pick a dish that matches whether you want something comforting, seafood‑forward, or boldly seasoned.
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Roma
Welcome to Roma Ristaurante Italiano located in downtown Aberdeen, SD. Our authentic Italian menu is second to none and we strive to offer an exceptional dining experience in a beautiful facility. At Roma Ristorante Italiano you can experience award-winning Italian food! Voted on by the people of Northeastern South Dakota, Roma is a 5-time consecutive winner of Italian food- 2018-2022! Raffi Ismaili brings 25 years of experience in the restaurant sector with an attitude that service and food go hand in hand! Roma Ristorante Italiano serves both northern & southern Italian cuisine, including pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, pizza and much more.