Planning a Romantic Anniversary Dinner in Aberdeen: Sample Menus and Tips from Roma Ristorante Italiano
Practical suggestions for planning a memorable anniversary at Roma Ristorante Italiano — sample three-course menus, wine-pairing tips, seating and reservation advice, dietary notes, and local logistics to help you make the night special.
Why choose Roma for your anniversary
Roma Ristorante Italiano sits in downtown Aberdeen in a beautiful, historic Main Street building and is known locally for authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality. For couples seeking a cozy, elevated evening, Roma pairs classic dishes with attentive service — the kind of comfortable, romantic setting that turns an ordinary dinner into a celebration.
The dining atmosphere: historic and intimate
Many guests point to the restaurant’s elegant, classic interior as a highlight. A recent local reviewer specifically praised the classy, old-hotel setting and friendly, attentive staff — the kind of detail that makes an anniversary feel thoughtfully staged. If you want a quieter corner, the layout offers sections toward the back that are calm and shielded from street activity.
Starter ideas to set the tone
Begin your evening with simple, well-loved starters: Roma’s house bread served with oil and dressing consistently receives compliments, and a Caesar salad is a reliably praised choice. On days when a soup special is offered — past guests have enjoyed a cheese tortellini tomato soup — that can be a comforting, flavorful opener before the main course.
Three sample three-course menus
Seafood celebration: start with the Caesar or bread and oil, follow with shrimp linguine pomodoro or shrimp ravioli (both frequently recommended by patrons), finish with one of the menu desserts. Classic Italian: soup or salad, Chicken Parmigiana or a veal dish paired with pasta, then a shared dessert to end the meal. Lighter/GF-friendly menu: house bread and a starter salad, GF penne with shrimp (a recommended gluten-free option), and a dessert to share — and ask staff about dessert choices when you arrive.
Wine and drinks: pairing tips
While specific labels may vary, simple pairings work well: a crisp white (think Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) complements seafood-based pastas, while medium-bodied reds like Chianti-style wines pair nicely with tomato-sauce mains and hearty veal or chicken dishes. Roma also offers draft beer like Peroni on tap and pours of wine described by guests as generous — mention your preference when ordering and the staff can help guide your choice.
How to request a quiet, romantic table
When you call to reserve, mention that you’re celebrating an anniversary and would prefer a quieter table or a spot in the back. Reviews note that seating toward the back reduces visibility of televisions and street noise, and staff are generally welcoming about accommodation requests. Arriving a few minutes early gives your server time to prepare and ensures you’re seated where you’d like.
Timing and reservation advice
Roma is popular for both special occasions and regular dining, so allow extra lead time for weekend or holiday evenings. Weeknights and earlier dinner times tend to be less crowded; if you prefer peak dining hours, call ahead and confirm your reservation. Guests have sometimes experienced wait times, so planning ahead helps the night flow smoothly.
Dietary considerations and gluten-free options
Guests following a gluten-free diet have noted that Roma offers at least one gluten-free pasta option (GF penne with shrimp) and that the staff are willing to help. If you or your partner have dietary restrictions, call ahead to discuss options so the kitchen can prepare accordingly — reviewers appreciate the team’s accommodating approach while also noting that GF choices are more limited than the regular menu.
Logistics: parking, accessibility, and takeout
Parking near Main Street can be limited during busy times, so plan extra time to find a spot or valet alternatives if available nearby. If you prefer to start at a hotel or take a stroll before dinner, Roma’s downtown location makes that easy. For couples who want a quieter celebration at their lodging, many guests praise Roma’s takeout service for accuracy and speed — a convenient option when you want great food without dining in.
Final touches to make the evening memorable
Small touches—letting the staff know it’s your anniversary, ordering a shared appetizer, and savoring the house bread with oil—can lift the evening. Owner and staff hospitality is frequently mentioned by diners, and that personal, welcoming service helps transform a meal into a memory. Call ahead, share your preferences, and Roma’s team can help you design an anniversary dinner that feels both intimate and unmistakably Italian.
Customer review
Article by
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.