Eating Our Way Through Rome: Romano's Pizza & Pub
Locals know it as Devil’s Elbow, a 90° curve on Highway Z as it wraps around the backwaters of Lake Petenwell in Rome, Wisconsin. There’s obviously a story there, but that’s for another day. For now, the significance of Devil’s Elbow is that as you come out of the turn, the next thing you’ll see is the best thing you’ll see all day - Romano’s Pizza & Pub.
Some might describe Romano’s as your typical Wisconsin bar, and that would be a good thing, because Wisconsin bars are pretty darn good. But Romano’s is anything but typical.
Sure, there’s a long bar with happy people sitting shoulder to shoulder having a laugh or two. And a beer or two. And yes, there’s Packers’ paraphernalia hanging on every wall. And beer signs, a jukebox, and a smattering of arcade games. But typical Wisconsin bars don’t have what Romano’s has - the best pizza this side of Chicago!
Especially their specialty stuffed pizza - a “beast of a pizza” as they call it - which takes a full hour to bake as it’s thicker, cheesier, and way more ‘betterer’ than any typical bar pizza. And well worth the wait (remember, it’s a bar, so waiting might just be the best part).
The regulars at Romano’s no doubt have the menu pretty well figured out, and probably have their favorites. But we first-timers needed a minute or two to take in every delicious option before we could possibly make a choice. But that’s OK because our server made some really great recommendations, including the pepper jack stuffed pretzel with a side of Ranch for dipping, and the ooey-gooey fried cheese curds, which were perfect for sharing as we waited for our pizza.
In fact, whether you're a regular or a first timer, you can expect warm, welcoming, and attentive service all around. Fast, friendly, and perfectly accommodating.
And that, they’re proud to say, is indeed so typically Wisconsin. Or should they say, so typically Rome, Wisconsin.
Romano’s Pizza & Pub is located at 108 County Road Z in Rome Wisconsin.
Written by: Lydell Capritta
