Beyond Sunshine: Unbreakable bonds of a Rhode Island close-knit community – Walter Potenza

by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer

Photo, top: (Some members of the Rhode Island G12. from left: Freddy, Chef Walter, Michele, Cristoforo, Frank, the Coach, Paul Barbosa, and Arturo, aka Mr. Ferrari)

Friends:

On most mornings, the inviting ambiance of Caffe Roma on Federal Hill in Providence beckons me without fail. The established routine, with its comforting and familiar elements, commences with the gentle clinking of coffee cups and the ambient hum of conversation as the regular patrons, many of whom share my Italian heritage, arrive individually. We exchange nods and smiles, finding solace in the familiar rhythm of the day as we settle into our customary seats.

The café springs to life with the resonances of our shared heritage, the fragrant allure of freshly baked goods, and the eager anticipation of another day in our cherished community. For those deeply entrenched in this neighborhood, the café transcends its role as a mere purveyor of cappuccino or macchiato; it stands as the quiet pulse of Federal Hill’s history each morning, a hub that unites us all in a shared sense of community and togetherness, making us feel connected and part of something larger.

(Yes, the Hill was recognized as the second-oldest Italian immigration colony in North America).

Most of us who gather around the tables at Caffe Roma have built lifelong connections to this community and, naturally, to one another. Our conversations tend to drift back to our roots—nostalgic reflections on when family was the cornerstone of everything we did. We often recall those unforgettable Sunday dinners, where the rich aroma of slow-simmered gravy bubbling with stewed meats filled the air, and the hours spent in conversation with our grandparents felt endless. Back then, life seemed guided by a moral compass, a time when tradition gave weight to every meal and every gathering. A sense of belonging—a connection to something larger than ourselves- grounded us in ways we still carry with us today. These enduring friendships and interconnectedness bring warmth and comfort to our lives.

Unsurprisingly, our discussions regularly touch on the importance of family and community, reflecting on how these values shaped us and why they remain so meaningful. Of course, we mix in plenty of lighthearted banter—debating Politics, chatting about Sports, grumbling about the weather, and even comparing notes on the aches and pains of aging. But an underlying thread is always there and ties back to something more profound. We often find ourselves reminiscing about a time when life seemed more straightforward, more wholesome, and rooted in values that now feel like relics of the past. This nostalgia for simpler times and traditions evokes a sense of longing and sentimentality.

We share stories of our parents and grandparents who took immense pride in their heritage and passed that down to us in various forms. Inevitably, these stories bring us a collective sense of joy and solidarity, as if we’re all nodding in agreement to a time when everything just felt… right. Even amid our laughter and lighthearted conversations, there’s a sense of recognition that those days and the values they carried continue to shape us, reminding us of the strength we draw from our shared history.

Seated within the confines of Caffe Roma, it’s effortless to apprehend that same sense of belonging we so often deliberate. The café, in and of itself, constitutes a community where the compulsion to assume any facade dissipates. Within this milieu, we can converse freely about bygone days and our aspirations for the future, assured that those surrounding us comprehend and empathize. Our exchanges are not geared towards solving global predicaments but rather towards maintaining connections—with one another, our hard-to-hold heritage, and the uncomplicated facets that anchor us.

The crew at Roma Gourmet on Federal Hill, Providence, Rhode Island (Jose, Panito + Oliver)

Moreover, Roma Gourmet transcends being merely a café; it serves as a cornerstone of Federal Hill, permeated by the profound essence of Italian culture and gastronomy. Upon entering, one is greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly roasted and brewed coffee, the sweet fragrance of cannolis, sfogliatelle, babas, and Tuscan biscotti, along with the comforting warmth emanating from bread and pizza baking in the background. These sensory offerings persist as they have for years, overseen by general manager Oliver and chef de cuisine Jose. Roma is a custodian of tradition, safeguarding the essence of Italian heritage in every beverage and dish served, instilling a sense of preservation and continuity in our community.

Roma Gourmet distinguishes itself with its remarkable versatility. It offers the ambiance of a traditional coffeehouse for leisurely enjoying expertly crafted macchiatos and culinary excellence akin to a family kitchen. This establishment excels in presenting the vivid flavors of American Italian cuisine, catering to patrons seeking a swift repast from the hot counter or a substantial evening meal. Moreover, on select nights, the kitchen extends its operating hours, featuring an evening repast that attracts local patrons searching for delectable yet familiar fare.

The emporium boasts a comprehensive selection of essential ingredients for recreating Italian flavors at home, including imported pasta, canned vine-ripened tomatoes, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oils, aged balsamic vinegar, and much more. Furthermore, its deli counter is replete with premium imported meats such as prosciutto, mortadella, and salami, complemented by a diverse array of fine imported and domestic cheeses.

Endowing patrons with a sense of familial belonging, Roma Gourmet manages to evoke a comforting ambiance, whether one seeks to relish a pizza, procure provisions, or prepare a homemade meal for the holidays. Oliver and Jose’s unwavering commitment to preserving Italian cuisine’s traditions and culinary excellence has solidified Roma’s standing as a cherished community establishment, solidly remaining on the top tier of tremendous and wholesome foods.

Within the environs of Caffe Roma, a distinctive regular, Arturo, coMMAnds an eminent presence. I’ll use his Italian baptismal given name and withhold his last name. Arturo is renowned for his humility and remarkable personal achievements at all social levels. He is an inspirational figure in the closely-knit community. His abilities are particularly noteworthy, as are his wide range of talents, such as a unique proficiency in Golf and the accordion and an unwavering passion for automobiles.

That’s how he earned the nickname we affectionately use: “Mr. Ferrari,” a nod to the late Enzo Ferrari, the legendary Italian engineer who forever changed the world of automobiles.

What’s in a name? Arturo may also be an adaptation of the Latin gentile, Artorius, of Messapian or Etruscan origin. This name probably shares the etymology of the Celtic goddess Artio, depicted together with a bear: in fact, words such as the Gaulish artos, the ancient Irish art, or the Welsh arth mean “bear.” The name Arturo is celebrated on August 8 of the Liturgical calendar.

His passion for automobiles transcends mere hobby; it constitutes an integral facet of his persona. The enthusiasm that emanates from him when discussing his collection is unmistakable. Whether engendered by the streamlined designs, formidable engines, or the historical significance inherent in each model, cars evoke a side of Arturo steeped in erudition and sincere zeal. Adhering to his epithet “Mr. Ferrari,” he exclusively traverses the roads in his cherished Ferraris, albeit, in keeping with his disposition, he maintains an array of other luxury automobiles carefully selected based on weather conditions and personal inclination.

His reverence for cars extends beyond ostentation; it reflects his appreciation for artisanship, performance, and the sheer pleasure of driving. His approach to automobiles mirrors his approach to life, marked by discipline, attentiveness, passion, and a profound admiration for life’s finer aspects. Despite the gentle chiding regarding his opulent predilections, he remains steadfastly humble. While known as “Mr. Ferrari” or Mr. C, within his circle, at his core, he is the same unpretentious individual, guided by timeless values and an unwavering adoration for his kin.

Much like many New Englanders, Arturo adopts a seasonal migration pattern, splitting his time between the bracing winters of Rhode Island and the temperate allure of Florida. When winter tightens its grip on the Northeast, he retreats to the Sunshine State, lured by its more forgiving climate and the promise of diversions tailored to warmer weather. And yet, despite the palm trees and perpetual sunshine, Florida can’t quite replicate the singular rhythms of life that make Rhode Island, especially our daily gatherings at Caffe Roma, so unique.

In our little enclave, we’ve mastered blending lighthearted conversation with a subtle but persistent focus on well-being. We’re a close-knit group, deeply invested in one another’s health and happiness. Our discussions often gravitate towards the practicalities of aging gracefully—trading tips on diet, sharing the latest health trends, and dispensing advice on living well. Culinary inquiries are regular, from decoding nutritional labels to perfecting a sauce. We’ve established a community where Knowledge flows freely, and each conversation contributes to a more fulfilling life.

While Florida might offer Arturo a reprieve from the snow and cold, it’s unlikely to deliver the same sense of belonging or the camaraderie he finds among us in Rhode Island. Our connection transcends weather patterns. Here, the richness of culture, the strength of personal relationships, and the depth of our conversations all work together to create a bond that nourishes the soul as much as it does the body. There’s no comparison—Florida might have the sun. Still, we have the warmth that matters, as well as endless and tasty bowls of well-executed pasta all’ Amatriciana. Take that, West Palm Beach!

And let’s be honest—how many snowbirds from the middle of the country can crack a joke like we do? I don’t think Arturo is getting the same belly laughs with retirees from Kansas or Minnesota as he does with us over a thick-crema espresso. Down there, it’s all about early bird specials and golf scores, and the espresso is probably average.

Recent insight into Arturo’s background has unveiled his humble beginnings within a close-knit North End Italian family imbued with core values such as hard work, integrity, morality, generosity, and a profound connection to his bloodline.

His Italian heritage is evident in his fondness for all things Italian, including a refined sense of fashion and a profound respect for the culinary traditions inherent to our homeland. His fidelity to his origins enriches his contentment as he progresses through this subsequent chapter of life.

After all, life’s journey is akin to walking on a floor of diverse tiles: some offer stability and assurance, while others present challenges that test our stability and fortitude. Each experience can be likened to stepping onto a new tile, prompting personal growth and cultivating trust in oneself and those within our sphere. Arturo is one of those steady tiles with a solid grip and surety.

In conclusion, dear readers, Rhode Island echoes with the refrain “I know a guy,” symbolizing the robust network of relationships and trust fostered over time within our closely woven city-state. This phrase encapsulates the essence of living in the Ocean State, emphasizing solid interpersonal connections and the charming interconnectedness of being acquainted with the right individuals.

Ultimately, our commitment and solidarity resonate within our devoted circle as a testament to our enduring friendship, and we can proudly assert that: “We all know a guy”…a guy named Arturo, a guy we can count on!

May 12 – 19, 2025 Chef Walters Culinary Tourism Tour