Our Story

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At Ruffino Ristorante, our story begins long before the doors ever opened.

At sixteen, Sal arrived in the United States from Italy, carrying with him a strong work ethic and a deep respect for tradition. Growing up in Montelepre, Sicily, he was introduced to the art of cooking by his mother, learning the foundations of simple, honest Italian cuisine at a young age.

He later found his start in Rockville Centre, working at George’s Bakery, a beloved local institution at the time, where he developed a true appreciation for the craft of baking. That balance—between the art of cooking and the precision of baking—would go on to shape everything he built.

In 1972, he opened Joe’s Pizzeria, grounded in consistency, quality, and a genuine connection to the community. A few years later, he expanded next door and opened Ruffino, establishing what would become a lasting neighborhood staple.

In December of 2025, just days before Christmas, a fire forced Ruffino to close its doors. What followed was a period of rebuilding—not just restoring the space, but refining it. The result is the Ruffino you see today: familiar at its core, yet elevated in its experience.

Since reopening in June of 2026, we’ve entered a new chapter—one that honors our roots while embracing a more refined atmosphere. The food remains grounded in tradition. The hospitality remains personal. And the intention remains the same: to create something timeless.

And while much has evolved over the years, some things never change. To this day, you can still find Sal in the kitchen, continuing his passion—baking Italian cheesecake and his well-known cannoli cake, just as he always has.

We are grateful to those who have supported us over the years, and we look forward to welcoming new guests to the table.