What is Oprah Winfrey's favorite small business this year?

Oprah Winfrey highlighted Rubirosa, an Italian-American restaurant in New York City, as one of her favorite small businesses.

Where is Rubirosa restaurant located?

Rubirosa restaurant is located in the Nolita neighborhood of New York City.

What special gift set does Rubirosa offer?

Rubirosa offers a "Pasta Sampler and Marinara Sauce Gift Set" featuring various pastas and three jars of their signature marinara sauce.

Home / Lifestyle / Oprah's Small Business Pick: NYC Italian Gem

Oprah's Small Business Pick: NYC Italian Gem

10 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Rubirosa restaurant in NYC is featured by Oprah Winfrey.
The Italian-American eatery offers pasta and marinara gift sets.
Sauces use simple ingredients, with tomatoes from California.

Oprah's Small Business Pick: NYC Italian Gem

Oprah Winfrey has recognized Rubirosa, a prominent Italian-American restaurant in New York City's Nolita neighborhood, as a standout small business for the holiday season. The establishment is celebrated for its "Pasta Sampler and Marinara Sauce Gift Set," which includes a variety of pastas and artisanal marinara sauce.

Rubirosa, established in 2009, carries on a rich family culinary tradition rooted in Naples, Italy. Maria Pappalardo, who took over the business in 2015, draws inspiration from her father's Staten Island pizzeria legacy. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients, with its signature marinara sauce crafted from California-grown plum tomatoes.

Beyond its dine-in experience, Rubirosa offers its popular pasta sauces for purchase online, making its authentic flavors accessible nationwide. The "World News Tonight with David Muir" program continues to feature American-made businesses creating unique holiday gifts throughout December.