Café Roma was established in downtown Cleveland, Tennessee in May of 2003 by Shannon and Christy Ritzhaupt. After marrying in 2002, the couple resided in Hixson, TN. Shannon had helped manage several established restaurants in the downtown Chattanooga area (Back Inn Café, St. Johns Restaurant, Bellagio) and was then working as head chef at Café Bella. He had been trained in the art of cooking under the successful Italian chef, Tony Race of Naples, Italy. He was approached about opening his own place in the Cleveland area. This was something he had always been interested in, but he had not yet found the perfect space. After walking through the downtown spot, the basis of Café Roma was created. He had the idea of a small town restaurant with a big city taste. Cleveland’s first fine dining restaurant was born. We invite you to join us for lunch or dinner, allow us to host your private party, or enjoy one of our five course wine dinners hosted through out the year.
Shannon and Christy both grew up in the Cleveland, Tennessee area and still have many family ties there. They are members of First United Methodist Church and are active in many local organizations. They have two young boys, Jackson and Anderson.
As a side note, Christy and Shannon would like to take this opportunity to thank our family members for their support in opening the doors of Café Roma. Jerry, Linda, Sukie, Jack, Jo, Holly, Dot, Don, Rachel, Don, and many, many others, we thank you. We want to thank our friends and regular customers for their business and for spreading the word that allows our business to grow. And most importantly, we want to thank our long time employees that have put forth so much effort and dedication over the years. We couldn’t do it without you.
Angela Schuelke is the general manager of Cafe Roma and, she welcomes the chance to discuss catering your special event. No event is to large or to small for our professional staff.
Dylan Burrelson is Cafe Roma’s head chef and kitchen manager. He is always experimenting and trying new specials for our customers to try. Come in and see what’s new!
