About Us
Our Story
The History of Romano’s Pizzeria in Essington, PA
For over 70 years, Romano’s Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant has been a mainstay in Essington, PA., located in the southeastern part of Delaware County. Founded in 1944 by Nazzareno Romano, the inventor of the Stromboli Sandwich, the restaurant is now in its fourth generation and is the oldest family-owned and operated Italian Restaurant in Delaware County.
Romano has a rich and storied past. From selling Tomato Pies out of a wagon during the ’40s to the birthplace of Stromboli in the ’50s and a visit from President Clinton’s Secret Service detail in the ’90s. The story of Romano’s reads like an epic novel spanning oceans, decades, and generations.
Follow the timeline to revisit the milestones that have made Romano’s a true historical treasure.
Our Story
1944
Nazzareno Opens First Pizzeria!
Nazzareno Romano opens Pizzeria at Routes 291 – 420 in Essington, PA.
1950
The Birth of the Stromboli.
Romano invents the “Stromboli” with help from William Scofield, who names it after the film Stromboli amid a Hollywood scandal. First flavors: Sweet, Hot, and Pepperoni.
1954
Romanos Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant Opens in Essington, PA.
Two blocks from the original store, Romano opens “Romano’s” at 3rd & Wanamaker Ave—an Italian restaurant that would span 80+ years and 4 generations.
1964/1965
Son, Peter P. Romano Sr. Takes Over.
After Nazzareno’s passing, son Peter P. Romano Sr. takes over, expanding the Stromboli menu to include Pepperoni Bread and various Special and Jumbo flavors.
1975
Introduce Veggie Strombolis.
Veggie Strombolis debut: Broccoli & Cheese, and Spinach & Cheese.
1988
Tough Economic Period.
After a tough decade, business picks up again for Romano’s.
1990
Business Expands to Stadiums.
Romano’s begins serving Strombolis in luxury boxes at Veterans Stadium for Phillies, Eagles, and concerts.
1997
Pete Sr. Retires, Son Takes Over.
Pete Sr. retires; Pete Jr. takes over. That year, Romano’s fulfills a Secret Service order for President Bill Clinton.
1998
Home Delivery Launches.
Menu expands with round pizza, seafood, and new entrées. Romano’s goes online.
2006
Launch of romanostromboli.com.
Pete Jr. creates a mission statement and launches romanostromboli.com to share their story online.
2012
WPVI 6 ABC Features Romano’s.
WPVI 6 ABC features Romano’s in a new food segment. New Strombolis debut: Pizza Steak and Chicken & Broccoli.
2016
Romano’s is on Delicious Destinations.
Romano’s is featured on Travel Channel’s Delicious Destinations and NBC’s Today Show during the DNC. New flavors: Cheesesteak and Meatball Provolone.
2018
New Strombolis Introduced.
Buffalo Chicken, The Philly Special, and Chicken Florentine.
2020
Romano’s Launches Shipping Site.
During the pandemic, Romano’s joins Goldbelly, launches shipping websites, and adds four delivery apps.
2024
Romano’s Stromboli Chips, Wins Herr’s “Flavored by Philly” Contest.
Donates prize to MFFO. Hosts 3 Bolifests and launches “Pics with Chips” campaign.
2025
Launch of New Retail Location.
Pete Jr. and Dan Romano launch “Romano’s Originals” for retail frozen Strombolis in Newtown Square, PA.
2025
Romano’s Stromboli Open Concession at Subaru Park.
Romano’s joins the Union Stadium – Subaru Park concessions for the 2026 World Cup.