Romano's Macaroni Grill

Romano's Macaroni Grill Logo

Romano's Macaroni Grill is a casual dining restaurant chain specializing in Italian-American cuisine. The restaurant was founded by Philip J. Romano in Leon Springs, Texas on April 19, 1988. The chain is known for its open kitchen concept, where guests can watch chefs prepare their meals, and its signature dishes such as pasta, pizza, and grilled meats.

History[edit | edit source]

Romano's Macaroni Grill was established by Philip J. Romano, a restaurateur who has created several other successful restaurant concepts. The first location opened in Leon Springs, Texas, a suburb of San Antonio. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its high-quality Italian-American dishes and inviting atmosphere.

In 1995, Brinker International acquired a majority stake in Romano's Macaroni Grill, helping to expand the chain nationwide. By the early 2000s, the chain had grown to over 200 locations across the United States and internationally.

In 2008, Brinker International sold the chain to a private equity firm, Golden Gate Capital. The chain has since undergone several ownership changes and restructuring efforts to improve its financial performance and adapt to changing market conditions.

Menu[edit | edit source]

Romano's Macaroni Grill offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of Italian-American dishes. Some of the most popular items include:

Pasta dishes such as Fettuccine Alfredo, Spaghetti Bolognese, and Lasagna.
Pizza with various toppings, including Margherita, Pepperoni, and Four Cheese.
Grilled meats such as Chicken Marsala, Steak, and Pork Chops.
Salads and soups like Caesar Salad, Minestrone, and Lobster Bisque.
Desserts including Tiramisu, Cannoli, and Chocolate Cake.

Dining Experience[edit | edit source]

Romano's Macaroni Grill is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurants feature an open kitchen design, allowing guests to watch chefs prepare their meals. The dining rooms are decorated with rustic Italian elements, including wooden tables, stone walls, and Italian artwork.

Guests are often greeted with complimentary bread and olive oil for dipping. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines and cocktails to complement the meal.

Ownership and Management[edit | edit source]

Over the years, Romano's Macaroni Grill has changed ownership several times. After being sold by Brinker International to Golden Gate Capital in 2008, the chain has been owned by various private equity firms and investment groups. The current owner is Redrock Partners, LLC, which acquired the chain in 2015.