Our Story

Our story begins in the 1940s in Newport, KY—back when families gathered around the dinner table, shared stories, cooked together, and truly connected. That spirit of togetherness is what we hope to rekindle with every bite of our handmade ravioli.

Our recipes trace back to Fortes Spaghetti House on Monmouth Street, owned and operated by my Grandma Russo's uncle Mike, a beloved family restaurant that served the community with heart. When the restaurant eventually closed its doors, my grandfather Sam kept the tradition alive—making ravioli in his home kitchen for friends, family, and loyal customers who just couldn't get enough.

Some of my earliest memories are of making ravioli beside him, just like my mom did in the restaurant kitchen. As I got older, I helped with deliveries and listened to his stories—especially when he'd say, "No one is making ravioli like this anymore!" He knew what he had was something truly special, and he dreamed of seeing our family's ravioli back on store shelves.

After his passing in 2014, we knew it was time to carry that dream forward. We started small—renting space in a shared commercial kitchen, selling to just one retail store, and reaching out to old customers, family, and friends. That was the rebirth of Russo's Ravioli.

Today, we've grown far beyond those humble beginnings. Russo's Ravioli is now available in retail stores in both Ohio and Kentucky, at weekly farmers' markets, even via catering, cooking classes, and home delivery services. As of May 2025, a longtime dream came true—our ravioli can now be ordered online and shipped directly to homes across the US!

From our dough and fillings to our sauces and lasagnas, every product is made from scratch using carefully sourced, high-quality ingredients and time-honored family techniques.

Today, that dream lives on, after getting our start over 70 years ago. Our raviolis have not only stood the test of time—they've grown more loved with every generation. Our mission is to ensure Russo's Ravioli has a lasting place in Cincinnati's culture, so whether you're celebrating a special milestone, or just making dinner on a weekday evening, let Russo's Ravioli be a part of your table.