For diners seeking authentic Italian cuisine in Mobile, Roma Cafe at 7134 Airport Boulevard has offered a refreshing alternative to chain restaurants, serving scratch-made dishes built on generations-old family recipes.
Owner Alex Maldinee, who grew up in Italy before relocating to Mobile 17 years ago, opened the restaurant with a simple philosophy rooted in hospitality and heritage. The cafe’s menu draws on recipes passed down from his mother, blending Italian, French, and Creole culinary traditions into a lineup that ranges from hearty pasta dishes to fresh Gulf Coast seafood.
Scratch-Made From Start to Finish
Unlike many chain Italian restaurants, Roma Cafe prepares its marinara sauce from scratch each day, and every dish is made to order rather than precooked or reheated. Despite the commitment to fresh preparation, lunch items typically require only 10 to 15 minutes, making the cafe a practical option for midday diners on a schedule.
Head chef Ian Wilemon described the kitchen’s approach as a fusion of traditions, with locally sourced ingredients playing a central role. The restaurant purchases fresh tomatoes from Mississippi suppliers and sources shrimp and salmon from Gulf Coast providers.
A Neighborhood Gathering Place
Located between Cody and Schillinger Roads on Airport Boulevard, Roma Cafe has cultivated a loyal following among a diverse clientele that includes families, college students, and senior citizens. The dining room provides an intimate atmosphere suitable for date nights, while an outdoor patio offers a more casual setting. The restaurant maintains a relaxed dress code, welcoming guests regardless of attire.
The cafe is open seven days a week, with hours running from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Friday evenings tend to draw the largest crowds, while Monday visits offer a quieter dining experience.
Supporting Local and Looking Ahead
In addition to dine-in service, Roma Cafe offers takeout orders and provides complimentary Wi-Fi for all guests. The restaurant’s small but dedicated staff has helped maintain consistent food quality, with homemade garlic bread and weekend soup specials rounding out the menu.
Roma Cafe is located at 7134 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36608, and can be reached at (251) 341-7217.