News Summary
Carmella Tronco Martin, the beloved matriarch of Columbia’s historic Villa Tronco, has passed away at the age of 100. Her legacy, rooted deeply in the community through her family’s Italian restaurant, spans over 80 years. Known for its hearty cuisine and warm atmosphere, Villa Tronco has remained a cherished gathering place in Columbia.
COLUMBIA SAYS GOODBYE TO A LEGENDARY FIGURE
Columbia has lost a true matriarch. At the age of 100, Carmella Tronco Martin, the beloved figure behind the city’s most historic Italian restaurant, Villa Tronco, has passed away. This marks the end of an era for a family legacy that began during a time of wartime and brought comfort to many.
A Historical Legacy
Villa Tronco, located at 1213 Blanding St., has been a culinary beacon since it first opened its doors in August 1940. Founded by Carmella’s mother, Sadie Tronco, the restaurant initially served hearty spaghetti and meatballs to soldiers stationed at Fort Jackson during World War II. It didn’t take long before those mouthwatering dishes turned into the first Italian restaurant in Columbia, and the introduction of pizza captivated the taste buds of local residents.
Carmella, alongside her husband, Henry Martin, worked at Villa Tronco for 41 years, contributing to the restaurant’s warmth and family atmosphere until Sadie’s passing in 1988. The pair had a long and loving marriage that lasted for 73 years until Henry’s death in September 2019, paving the way for Carmella to take charge of the family business.
The Evolution of a Neighborhood Staple
In 1972, the restaurant was officially passed to Carmella and her brother-in-law, Joe Roche. Fast forward to August 2025, Villa Tronco will proudly celebrate its 85th anniversary. Remarkably, five generations of the Tronco family have woven their love and passion into every inch of this iconic establishment, ensuring that it remains family-owned and operated today.
Carmella’s granddaughter, Carmella Roche, has often reflected on the significance of family and the restaurant’s rich history in the heart of their community. The kitchen remains filled with cherished family recipes, while also embracing new culinary trends by offering various specials. This balance of tradition and innovation has helped Villa Tronco become a beloved gathering place for residents of Columbia.
Honoring Villa Tronco’s Impact
The impact that Villa Tronco has had on the community has not gone unnoticed. In September 2024, the Columbia City Council made the decision to honor the restaurant by ceremonially renaming the 1200 block of Blanding St. to “Villa Tronco Way.” The unveiling of the street sign on September 12, 2024, was a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of Carmella and her family.
Today, the restaurant continues to employ around 15 dedicated staff members, many of whom have been part of the Villa Tronco family for several years. Carmella and Joe’s grandson, Tripp Roche, representing the fifth generation, is bringing fresh ideas while staying deeply rooted in the family traditions that made Villa Tronco a staple in the first place.
An Exuberant Atmosphere
Over the years, Villa Tronco has hosted a multitude of events from live musical performances to anniversary celebrations that highlight their signature dishes. Tripp has recognized how important the restaurant has been as a gathering spot for families, friends, and loved ones, serving as a home away from home.
While Villa Tronco has adapted to changing tastes, it has maintained a commitment to serving its valued customers the delicious dishes they have cherished for decades. The restaurant remains open for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, ready to welcome both old friends and new faces alike.
Looking Ahead
Going forward, the future of Villa Tronco looks bright with plans to continue evolving while honoring its beloved history. Carmella Tronco Martin’s spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of the community as they savor the flavors and memories associated with this cherished restaurant.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX
- Post and Courier
- The State
- ColaDaily
- Google Search: Villa Tronco Relief
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Villa Tronco
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
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