Meet Elizabeth Christie | Restaurant Owner & Nurse Practitioner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth Christie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elizabeth, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I didn’t exactly start Roma’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant from scratch; rather, it was handed down to me by someone who has been like family my entire life. Vito entrusted the restaurant to his wife, Judy. Who then entrusted Ted to help her run it. Once Judy passed away, Ted, my father, needed help and I was who he called upon. Vito was a mentor to me growing up, he was responsible for introducing my parents, and I was practically raised in this environment until I went off to nursing school. As a toddler, I was running around Vito’s previous establishment, and over the years, I developed a deep connection to the business, the people, and its legacy, Vito’s legacy.

When the opportunity to came to take over, my first thoughts weren’t just about business – it was about honoring the trust and legacy Vito had built. I saw it as my responsibility to continue something that had been a huge part of my upbringing. At the same time, I also viewed it as an opportunity to create my own platform to help those in my community. From fundraising for our veterans and supporting school organizations with donations and dine-to-donates, to providing free meals for those less fortunate, I knew this business could be more than just a livelihood – it could be a way to give back in a different way and make a meaningful impact.

My decision was driven by more than just familiarity – it was about passion, responsibility, and a sense of purpose. I wanted to ensure that what he built continued to thrive, not just for myself and my daughter, but for the community that had grown around it. I’m now focused on taking the business to the next level, whether through innovation, expanding its reach, or simply ensuring it remains a place of value for customers and a source of support for those who need it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been anything but conventional, and I believe what sets me apart is my resilience and determination to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.

I always knew I wanted to be a nurse, but life had other plans. A car accident pushed me out of nursing school, but I refused to let that stop me. I fought my way back, finished my program, and went on to pursue my Master’s degree. Then, another accident nearly derailed that journey, leaving me paralyzed in three limbs. But I am a survivor. I pushed through, recovered, and conquered what seemed impossible.

During my recovery, another opportunity presented itself – the pizzeria/Italian restaurant I had grown up in was handed down to me. It came at a time when I was bouncing back both physically and professionally. While stepping into business ownership, I also returned to nursing, this time as a nurse practitioner. Balancing both careers wasn’t easy, but I’ve never backed down from a challenge.

On top of it all, I’m also a single parent to a high school senior this year. That role, above all else, has given me the greatest motivation to keep going. I want to show my child that no matter what life throws at you, perseverance, hard work, and heart can get your through anything.

What I am most proud of if not just surviving, but thriving. I didn’t let my struggles define me – I used them as fuel to push forward. Through it all, I’ve learned that life will test you, but its up to you to decide whether to let it break you or make you stronger.

I want the world to know that my story isn’t just about survival, its about perseverance, passion, and giving back. Whether through healthcare or my restaurant, I’m committed to making a difference – helping my patients, supporting my community, feeding those in need, and honoring the opportunities I’ve been given. My journey wasn’t easy, but I wouldn’t change it, because it made me who I am today.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend was visiting for a week, I’d want to give them a mix of great food, local culture, relaxation, and some meaningful experiences – especially places that highlight the heart of the community.

I would start each day with a hearty brunch at one of my favorite stops, Truago’s or Salute Taverna. Or we may head down to Monroe to Chateau Louise for their AMAZING Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar! We could head to Captain’s in Wyandotte for some drinks and great lunch specials. Kneaded relief, Amber, is amazing at providing relaxing massages and facials for a spa day! We would absolutely head over to Sibley Garden’s, their Sammy is to die for! Of course what kind of host would I be if I didn’t bring her to my own place where she would be introduced to my own establishment! Wednesdays we offer Make Your Own Pizzas – this is such a fun event for all ages and adults have an alcoholic drink included! She will be introduced to the best Lasagna around, again at Roma’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant, 5 layers of ultimate goodness with Vito’s own Meat Sauce recipe. Oh and cannot forget about the Antipasto salad with our Sweet House Dressing! Roma’s has the biggest wings downriver that I have seen, so meaty!

As far as evening entertainment, we could head over to Kudos for some Axe throwing and Cornhole. A movie at MJR theater, a play at Trenton Theater, or any other event downriver. April 6th we will be hosting our second Comedy Show with Wyandotte’s own, Mark Knope! It was sold out the last time around and we expect that once again! We also offer on occasion Music Bingo on Thursdays with some amazing prizes!

If its summer time, I would take her out on the boat and show her Downtown Detroit! Park and have an experience on the Riverwalk as well as restaurants on the Detroit River. We could head over to Canada (passport permitting) and go to a casino or one of their restaurants! So many options to chose from, its never a dull moment in this area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would definitely dedicate my success to my parental units. They each played a role in shaping the person I am today, not just through their words but through their actions.

My mom, as a business owner, showed me what it means to put countless hours, stay committed, and build something successful through sheer dedication. My father, who worked in construction, taught me the value of hard work – waking up at odd hours to get the job done right and on time. And my stepdad, despite traveling for work, worked for a company. He always made sure he was a constant in my life, showing up for me with my homework, being at my sporting events, giving me some hard life lessons that I now value and instill with my own daughter. He showed me that commitment to family is just as important as commitment to work.

Their sacrifices, work ethics, and unwavering support gave me the foundation to succeed, both in business and life. Today, I not only own and operate my own Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant, but I am also a Nurse Practitioner who still practices part time in Wyandotte. I have succeeded in my own personal venture and am doing so with this amazing restaurant that was handed down to me. Vito, bless his soul, showed me lots of dedication and what it took to run a restaurant. So many long nights and early mornings making the homemade recipes and everything that went into running his restaurant is also something I hold very near and dear to my heart. He was my mentor for this place as well as my work ethic I already learned from my own parents.

Balancing both careers requires dedication and perseverance – traits I learned from them all. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their example. I also wouldn’t be here today without two of those men saying I wouldn’t be able to do something – my response to both of them – WATCH ME! I am incredibly grateful for them, the values they instilled within in, and the motivation I needed to succeed!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RomasPizzeriaRestaurant

Image Credits
Credits go to Kyla Green at Kyla Lou Photography

https://mamalouphotography.mypixieset.com/portraits/