A longstanding Oakland County restaurateur is getting special recognition for her dedication to quality cuisine and outstanding hospitality next month.
Cafe Cortina owner Rina Tonon will be inducted into the Distinguished Restaurants of North America Hall of Fame at an event in Napa, California, on Sept. 10. She’s being honored for her legacy as a co-founder of the Farmington Hills Italian restaurant, which she opened with her late husband, Adriano Tono,n nearly 50 years ago in 1976.
“No one thought we would ever last on 10 Mile road,” she said in a press release announcing the honor. Not only has Cafe Cortina stood the test of time, but it has also become known throughout the decades as one of the most iconic and romantic Italian restaurants in Metro Detroit.
First-generation Italian American Tonon has grown up in restaurants. Her parents ran Rina’s Pizzeria on Schaefer Highway, named after her, and from age 14 she knew she wanted to be in the industry, she said.
The Distinguished Restaurants of North America, which uses the acronym DiRōNA, was founded in 1990 by renowned restaurateurs. It awards restaurants based on culinary quality, beverage selection, service and ambiance. To be considered for the Hall of Fame, candidates must have at least 25 years of service.
“I’ve always said Café Cortina isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a reflection of our values, our traditions and our love for people,” said Tonon. “This recognition by DiRōNA is an incredible honor, not just for me, but for my entire family and the loyal guests who’ve made this journey possible.”
Cafe Cortina, 30715 W. 10 Mile in Farmington Hills, is open for dinner at 4 p.m. Tues.-Sat. and at 3 p.m. Sun. Call (248) 474-3033 or visit cafecortina.com.
mbaetens@detroitnews.com
Dining and Cooking