Welcome to Ruffino's
Ruffino’s will be closed indefinitely due to a fire on 12/19. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.
About Us
Montelepre to Long Island
- In Montelepre, Sicily grew a young man who had to be the man of the house from a very young age.
- At 12 years old, Sal learned how to make shoes and would travel up into the mountains of Montelepre to bring home fruits for his family.
- In 1966, at the young age of 16 years old, Sal Ruffino along with his mother and sisters decided to leave their hometown of Montelepre, Sicily. They took the long trek across the Atlantic Ocean on the SS Raffaello headed for Ellis Island.
- Upon arrival, Sal attended South Side High School in Rockville Centre where he played soccer and took time to learn English. During this time, Sal worked in Georges Bakery where he acquired a skill and a love for baking.
- In 1970, at the mere age of 19, Sal bought Joe's Pizzeria in Lynbrook.
- In 1972, Sal opened up Ruffino's Ristorante right next door and started what will be a long and prosperous career.
1970 - Present
- At 19, Sal had no initial intention to make this his career. He wanted to go to college and pursue a degree.
- He had always loved to cook but saw his entire future differently.
- After being in business for a while, he realized what he loved most in life ~ making people happy through the art of cooking.
- After almost 50 years in business, he has definitely achieved this feat.
Photo Gallery
