Profiles In Business Excellence: Cafe Rinaldi

      Walking down Main Street in Old Forge, one passes a slew of restaurants. While each eatery's staff works diligently to withstand the current economic downturn by reinventing menus and putting a new coat of paint on the walls, Café Rinaldi stands apart from the rest. What began as a 10-table restaurant has evolved into a dining room that seats 100 people, a banquet hall, full bar, and catering business. In a little more than a decade, Café Rinaldi has grown in size but remains consistent in its exceptional customer service and homemade dishes.
     Generations of fine Italian cuisine show in Cafe Rinaldi's extensive menu. While recipes are consistently creative, only fresh ingredients are used to bring their ideas to life. And, Café Rinaldi offers a wide variety of daily specials, including veal, pasta, chicken, steaks, seafood dinners, and Old Forge style pizza.
     Richard, Russell and Bobby Rinaldi run this homestyle Italian restaurant with their father, Robert Rinaldi, and Uncle Brian Rinaldi’s homemade recipes. The Signature Risotto is their most popular dish. It is in such demand that many customers place their orders with the staff without even looking at a menu. Every item is prepared to order. The soups, ravioli, sauces, and gnocchi are all homemade, and it’s been this way since the conception,” said Hostess Judy Rinaldi- Richard, Russell and Bobby's aunt- who has added to the tight-knit atmosphere of the restaurant’s staff. Also, all the desserts are homemade and one can’t leave without indulging in a piece of Mama Jean's famous cheesecake.
     “We have a lot of repeat customers because of the quality of food and the consistency they all come back for," the Rinaldi family agreed. "We have a variety of customers that come from all over the area and even out of state." “Each day is different here," said Joe Roscioli, head chef for nine years. “I know people that have come almost every week for the last five years. We have a lot of loyal customers, and we wouldn’t be in business if it weren’t for them.”
     The private room seats up to 60 people and is available for any type of occasion, such as baby and bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners. Surprise a friend or loved one with a birthday or anniversary gift certificate.
      The restaurant is open Monday-Thursday from 4:30-10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 4:30-11 p.m. for eat-in service or take out, and Sunday for private catering only.