JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
After much wait and growing anticipation from the community, Tony Roma’s in Kimball has now officially opened for business on Tuesday, October 14.
Tony Roma’s first established its roots in North Miami back in 1972. Tony Roma’s today is a popular steakhouse and grill that serves a variety of dishes ranging from burgers and ribs, to its selection of steak dinners. Mohaimina Haque, Chief Executive Officer of the Tony Roma’s corporation, explained that the Kimball location will not only provide a new social scene for the community, but also economically benefit the town with new revenue and jobs generated. She expressed how the restaurant’s long-awaited grand opening is exciting for all involved, with both staff on-site as well as corporate officials eager to serve new customers their signature dishes.
“People have been very excited, and it’s not only exciting to come back to Tony Roma’s and make memories, but it’s also a major economic opportunity for the community,” said Haque.
The groundwork for the restaurant began back in July, 10, 2023, where owners and managers Jeannette and Tim Farris faced roadblocks regarding its construction. Jeanette explained how corporate does not have its own set of contractors, leaving herself and her husband in search of a contractor of their own. The contractor that was hired also had to reach out to other sources to handle other projects for the facility’s construction, adding further delays to the restaurant’s completion. Jeanette felt that the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on businesses was partly to blame for the lack of contractors, due to the pandemic’s economic rift that left businesses closed down even five years later.
“People are still not back to work, and some companies are still closed down and have never reopened. So it’s been tough on that part of it, but we’ve made it through it and we’re here,” said Jeannette.
Despite the challenges, Jeannette and Tim Farris are happy to lead the team and provide the community with a brand new and inviting dining experience. A ribbon cutting by the Marion County Chamber of Commerce was also held on the same day, which further helped solidify the grand opening as a major celebration for the long awaited restaurant.
Photo by Marion County Chamber of Commerce