Celebrating Tradition in Downtown Columbia: Villa Tronco Gets a Street Named After It
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as one of its most beloved institutions receives a well-deserved honor. The charming Italian restaurant, Villa Tronco, has officially been recognized with the honorary naming of “Villa Tronco Way” on Blanding Street—a fitting tribute for a place that has been a cornerstone of the community for an impressive 84 years!
History and Resilience
Founded in 1940 by the late Sadie Tronco, affectionately known as Mama Tronco, Villa Tronco has stood the test of time in a city that has seen its fair share of changes. Nestled at 1213 Blanding St., this gem of a restaurant has not only survived the ups and downs of downtown Columbia but has thrived through them. It’s a remarkable journey that reflects the heart and soul of the community.
The building housing Villa Tronco has a rich history of its own, originally serving as one of Columbia’s first firehouses back in the late 1860s. Talk about a place with character! Over the decades, Villa Tronco has become famous for its mouthwatering dishes, including lasagna, pizza, and its special pan-seared chicken Villa Tronco. For many locals, a meal here feels like a warm hug from the past.
Eventful Street Naming Ceremony
The recent street naming ceremony on September 12th brought together a community that loves Villa Tronco. The Columbia City Council unanimously voted to honor this restaurant’s legacy, and a brand new street sign was unveiled at the corner of Blanding and Sumter. The event was graced by Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and several family members who have helped keep Villa Tronco’s spirit alive throughout generations.
“It’s a wonderful feeling,” said Joe Roche, who along with his wife Carmella (Sadie Tronco’s granddaughter), has been at the helm of Villa Tronco for years. “This was a celebration not just for us but for all our customers, employees, and our family. It’s so special to be recognized like this!”
A Generational Legacy
Five generations of the Tronco family have been intricately involved in the restaurant’s operations, and it’s clear they take immense pride in their legacy. Joe highlighted that Villa Tronco is more than just a restaurant; it’s a family tradition that several customers have grown up with. “It’s such an honor to get this recognition. We’ve served generations, and our ability to adapt and grow has kept us relevant,” he noted.
Mayor Rickenmann couldn’t agree more. He remarked on the remarkable staying power of the restaurant, saying, “Villa Tronco is a quintessential example of what Columbia is all about,” emphasizing how the support from the community keeps small businesses like this one thriving. He noted that maintaining high standards in customer service and food quality has been key to their longevity.
An Evolving Tradition
As the years have gone by, Villa Tronco has kept pace with the times by evolving its menu and offering unique experiences. From featuring talented musicians during dining hours to introducing special menu items, the restaurant remains a lively part of Columbia’s dining scene. Recently, guests enjoyed beautiful performances from singers and musicians with the Palmetto Opera while savoring their meals during the street sign unveiling.
Carmella reflected on how blessed their family feels to reach this momentous milestone. “We’re grateful that we’ve been here for almost 85 years. It’s a testament to our family’s commitment to this business, and it serves as another step forward for us,” she said with a smile.
Looking to the Future
The spirit of youth is alive and well in Villa Tronco as Tripp Roche, Carmella and Joe’s 19-year-old grandson, steps into the family business. Tripp played a pivotal role in applying for the honorary street designation, sharing how significant this honor is for their family. Initially considering the name Sadie Tronco Way, he ultimately believed Villa Tronco Way captured the essence of all generations involved. “It means a lot to all of us,” he added proudly.
As the street sign now proudly hangs over Blanding Street, it serves as a reminder of the rich history and cherished memories created at Villa Tronco. Here’s to the next 84 years of delicious food, warm memories, and community spirit!
