CELEBRATING 75 YEARS IN 2008!
Our History
A Tradition In Greater Cincinnati
Established in 1933 by Colonel and Mrs. Pompilio, the bar and restaurant became a regular stay for Northern Kentucky “characters” so prevalent in the area. During those early days, Pompilios developed the cornerstone of its lasting reputation for fine, authentic Italian food.
Pompilios Family
Founders John Michael Pompilio: Born May 3, 1888- Died August 13, 1968
Johanna Agnes Colletta: Born November 15, 1894- Died Oct 23, 1974
Mr. Pompilio Was Born in the City of Castelgandolpho in the Province of Foggia
Mrs. Colletta (Pompilio) was born in the city of Matrice in the province of Campbasso
Children
Matthew Anthony Pompilio: Born June 19, 1913- Died Aug 22 1992
Michael John Pompilio: Born March 31, 1916- Died June 1 1985
Daniel Joseph Pompilio: Born Oct 20, 1917- Died April 8 1998
All the children were born in Cincinnati, Ohio
Also a son Anthony: Born July 25, 1911- Died Oct 28, 1927
The Tradition Continues
In 1982, the Mazzei and Argento families took over the ownership of Pompilios. Our main objective has always been to maintain the quality and value of the dining experience established by the Colonel’s hospitality and Mama Pompilios time-tested recipes.
We make our own ravioli, lasagna, soups and sauces by hand with fresh ingredients. Our onion rings are hand-breaded to order. Our meatballs and Italian sausage are freshly prepared in our kitchen using only the finest meats.
We pledge to maintain high standards of excellence for outstanding service and quality food every time you visit.
Did You Know?
The bar with its tile floor, beveled-glass windows and hand-carved “Back Bar” is one of the few classic bars left in the area. The Back Bar was hand-crafted and built of cherry wood by the George Wiedemann Brewing Company in 1886. The barroom is pretty much as it was originally except for a pressed metal ceiling that has been removed, and the mahogany bar that was installed after Prohibition.
Pompilios boasts the first liquor license (LD-1) to be issued in Kentucky after Prohibition ended.
Hollywood Comes to Pompilios
Lights, camera, action! Pompilios was selected as a site for the filming of the Oscar-winning motion picture “Rainman,” starring Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise. Of course, the cast and crew did more than just act at Pompilios. They ate our wonderful Italian food! Rumor has it that they wanted to nominate our “Italian Sampler” as “Best Supporting Meal” in a major motion picture. Try one today and decide for yourself!