The Rosebud Story
Founded in 1973 by Alex Dana, Rosebud began as a small Italian restaurant on Chicago’s historic Taylor Street. Inspired by his family’s deep roots in the restaurant industry dating back to 1923, Dana built Rosebud on a foundation of scratch-made recipes, warm hospitality, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
1923
Rosebud Founder, Alex Dana, learned the in’s and out’s of the restaurant industry at a young age while working in his family’s restaurant. The restaurant was a scratch kitchen, meaning everything was made in-house everyday.
1973
In 1973, Dana opened his first restaurant on the corner of Washington and Wacker in the heart of Chicago’s Loop neighborhood. Located right across from the Opera House, his business quickly took off as his recipes won the hearts of talent and opera fans alike.
1974
In 1974, Dana began building his first Rosebud location in Chicago’s Little Italy. Originally named Bocciola della Rose (bud of the rose).
Rosebud Expands
By 1992, Rosebud’s growing success led to the opening of Rosebud on Rush, quickly becoming a favorite among Chicago locals and celebrities alike. As the years passed, the Rosebud family expanded across the city and suburbs, including the acclaimed Carmine’s brand, further cementing its place in Chicago’s dining scene.
In 2011, founder Alex Dana was honored with a commemorative street sign by the city of Chicago, recognizing Rosebud’s lasting impact on the local food culture. By 2024, Rosebud crossed state lines for the first time with the opening of Mia Rosebud in Boca Raton — a milestone led in part by Director of Operations Marco Micheli, who has spent eight years with the company and played an integral role in the Florida expansion. Having started in the restaurant industry at a young age, Marco brings a deep passion for building strong, cohesive teams and carrying the Rosebud legacy forward.
Mia Rosebud Continues the Tradition
Since 1973 Rosebud has continued the tradition of Alex Dana’s unwavering commitment to hospitality and incredible Italian cuisine.
His original passion for authentic Italian cuisine and an unmatched dining experience still resonates with every guest who walks through Rosebud’s doors… continuing the legacy for over 50 years.
Mia Rosebud—where tradition lives, and every meal tells a story.
