The Tony Roma's Story
Birth of the Legend
Since its beginning nearly 40 years ago, Tony Roma’s has been focused on serving its signature Baby Back Ribs. However, Tony Roma’s is not just a place for ribs anymore. We have expanded our menu to focus on variety for all guests; not just rib eaters. We have an extensive selection of Steaks and Seafood entrees along with the most unique appetizers and mini desserts in our segment today. We have redesigned our buildings and our service to meet the ever-changing mindset of our guests.
The 1980's
Tony Roma's Goes International
In 1980, everything changed for Tony Roma’s. We opened our first international location in Tokyo, Japan! With numerous other openings, Tony Roma’s now had locations in North America, Canada and Tokyo, Japan…let the journey begin!
1980
First restaurant internationally opened in Tokyo, Japan.
1983
Tony Roma’s won “Best Ribs in America” in a national rib-eating contest, judged by an international panel, in Cleveland, OH. Going forward, we would win this award many more times.
The 1990's
It's All About the Rib
The 90’s were a busy time for us. Not only did we begin with an aggressive expansion in Asia, but we also began offering two additional barbecue sauces; Blue Ridge Smokies and Red Hots to be exact. Along with an expansion in Southeast Asia, we also opened in South America with locations in Peru and Venezuela, along with a location in Central America in El Salvador. But wait, we can’t forget about the introduction of the Romarita (cocktails just make a meal better)!
1994
We began aggressive expansion in Asia, opening the first restaurant in a number of SE Asia countries including Jakarta, Indonesia.
1994
Tony Roma’s developed and began offering two additional barbecue sauces: Blue Ridge Smokies, and Red Hots.