A humble Rochester eatery, known for its no-frills Italian-American cuisine, has earned national recognition. Rocky’s, a staple in the city for over 75 years, has been named one of the top 44 restaurants in the United States by USA Today’s 2024 Restaurants of the Year list.
The list was compiled through nominations from food writers across the country, who highlighted places that captivated them and were worthy of sharing with friends and family. Rocky’s stood out for its enduring popularity and loyal customer base.
When informed of the honor, Joe Mastrella, the third-generation owner, kept his response simple and modest. “The majority of our success is due to the loyalty of our customers,” he remarked.
Rocky’s Roots and Enduring Legacy
Founded in 1949 by Joseph and Louise Mastrella, who both emigrated from Italy as children, Rocky’s started as a modest bar in the heart of Rochester’s Italian neighborhood. As the bar attracted more customers, Louise began preparing classic Italian-American dishes, setting the stage for the restaurant’s culinary success.
Though the Italian-American community has largely moved to the suburbs, Rocky’s remains a fixture in the neighborhood, one of the few Italian restaurants still operating in the area. Today, Joe Mastrella’s grandson, also named Joe, continues the family tradition in the kitchen, preparing beloved family recipes using a 10-burner stove and two ovens. Meanwhile, Joe’s son, Rocco (Rocky), serves drinks behind the bar, and his daughter, Alexandria, waits tables. The extended family also contributes to the preparation of homemade ravioli and helps serve patrons.
Nostalgic Charm and Family Atmosphere
Rocky’s hasn’t undergone many updates since its opening, maintaining a nostalgic ambiance filled with memorabilia. The bar and two small dining rooms are adorned with a variety of beer trays collected by Joe’s father, beer mirrors gathered by Joe, and other pieces contributed by family and loyal customers, creating a warm, homey environment that keeps guests coming back.
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