The Russo family’s culinary legacy in Grand Rapids, Michigan, spans over a century, reflecting their deep-rooted passion for Italian cuisine and community engagement.
Giovanni Battista (G.B.) Russo emigrated from Sicily to Grand Rapids in 1902. Recognizing the need to provide fellow Italian immigrants with familiar foods, G.B. and his parents, Francesco and Girolama Lombardo-Russo, established a small kiosk near the city’s furniture factories. By 1905, they expanded to a structure in East Grand Rapids’ Ramona Park district. In 1908, the family purchased a building at the corner of Division and Franklin Street, where they operated an Italian grocery-deli at 752 S. Division under the name G.B. Russo Importer.
In 1916, with the birth of Frank D. Russo, the business was renamed G.B. Russo & Son. The family diversified their ventures by opening Roma Hall on the building’s second floor in the 1930s. This venue functioned as a nightclub, Italian restaurant, and wedding hall, hosting renowned entertainers like Nat King Cole and The Supremes.
In the early 1950s, G.B. and Frank introduced one of Grand Rapids’ first fast-food pizzerias at 750 S. Division. Over the years, various family members managed this establishment, which continues to operate on 44th St. SW under the ownership of cousin Michael Russo.
In 1967, the retail specialty food and wine store moved to 1935 Eastern Ave. SE, and in 1976, the family built a new store at 2770 29th St. SE. In the early 2000s, John F. Russo and his children opened Carrettino Italian Market at 4301 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, operating for about five years before closing due to changing neighborhood demographics.
Continuing their tradition, the Russo family launched Russo Ristorante & Mercato at Tanger Outlets in Byron Center. This establishment offers authentic Italian cuisine, a curated market with Italian and Mediterranean products, and a selection of quality wines. The family remains committed to providing quality products and personal service, with members of the fifth and sixth generations actively involved in the business.
The Russo family’s enduring presence in Grand Rapids showcases their dedication to sharing Italian culinary traditions and adapting to the evolving needs of the community.
