Romano’s, the 70-year-old pizzeria celebrated throughout the Region for its Ham Hoagies, and Soprano’s Restaurant and Lounge have closed after the owner of the building at Broad Street and 61st Avenue in Griffith sold the structure that the businesses shared.
Romano’s plans to relocate and reopen. Soprano’s does not.
Soprano’s, a 16-year-old bar, billed itself as a “friendly pub” with the slogan “great stories start here.” The bar was known for pool, bingo, karaoke, Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments and mixed martial arts pay-per-views. Soprano's frequently hosted live music from all genres and DJs, touting how it was just outside Griffith and not subject to any municipal noise ordinance.
“It is a heavy heart with this announcement,” the Soprano’s owners said on Facebook. “We would like to thank everyone that has joined us through the years. Lots of memories were made. We laughed, we cried, we are family. Thank you everyone.”
Romano’s, which was established in Highland in 1948 and bills itself as the “Home of the Hoagie,” is planning a return after closing last week.
“The property at which Romano's is currently located has been sold,” the owners posted on Facebook. “We are currently seeking a new location. We will keep you posted as things become evident. Thank you for your continued loyalty, support and patronage.”
Romano’s, which was long located on Ridge Road in Highland before relocating to rural Griffith, was known for Italian food like pizza, mostaccioli and salad. It also served fried cheddar cheese cubes and its famous Ham Hoagie, which stuffs Polish ham and a secret blend of thick pizza cheeses into a fresh Vienna bun. The sandwich was featured as an iconic Region foodstuff in The Times' 50 Dishes of the South Shore.
“Due to circumstances beyond our control, we have closed Romano’s at the Broad and Ave H location,” the owners said on Facebook. “We apologize for the inconvenience and lack of hoagies and amazing pizza in the Region as we currently plan out our soon to be announced new location. Please continue to visit our page as we will keep you, our loyal customers, up to date on our new location and re-grand opening. We appreciate and thank you for your continued patronage.”