Tony Roman, the owner of Basilico’s Pasta e Vino, has taken a bold stand against California Governor Gavin Newsom, filing a federal lawsuit that challenges what Roman describes as the governor’s overreach during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Roman’s legal action comes on the heels of the state seizing his restaurant’s assets years after he defied Newsom’s mandates, an act he claims violated his constitutional rights.
In a press release dated September 8, 2025, Roman outlined his grievances, declaring the lawsuit aimed not only at reclaiming his business assets but also at exposing what he perceives as Newsom’s tyrannical policies. He referred to the governor as ‘Gavin Pelosi,’ illustrating his disdain for Newsom’s leadership style. Roman stated, “This little wannabe dictator is suddenly talking tough… Well with this lawsuit, I am going to drag him back into a fight he doesn’t want.” His assertion underscores a deep-seated frustration with Newsom’s regulatory actions during the pandemic.
Basilico’s Pasta e Vino built a reputation for defiance from day one of the pandemic. Roman made headlines for his aggressive opposition to government-mandated closures, which he branded as violations of personal liberty. He declared his establishment a ‘Constitutional Battleground.’ “If other businesses would have followed our lead… we would have never been in this mess,” he said, criticizing those who did not take a stand. His remarks emphasize a belief in vigor and unwavering resistance against what he interprets as governmental overreach.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Roman employed unconventional strategies to challenge state regulations. He famously banned masks in his restaurant and instituted a requirement for patrons to prove their unvaccinated status to enter. His refusal to comply with mandates led to multiple confrontations with CAL-OSHA officials, who operated under Newsom’s directives. Roman’s response was to prevent them from entering his premises, even when they arrived with law enforcement support and a warrant.
The lawsuit represents a culmination of years of tension between Roman and Newsom’s administration. In Roman’s view, the state’s actions—specifically the seizure of his bank accounts—are retaliatory measures meant to silence dissent. “They started this fight, and we need to try and finish it!” he insisted, highlighting his determination to reclaim what he sees as his rightful property and to fight against what he perceives as governmental oppression.
The legal battle has drawn significant attention to Roman’s business, which stands as a symbol of resistance against COVID-19 restrictions. His willingness to openly defy state mandates, such as staying open during lockdowns and publicly mocking the government through billboards, has garnered both support and criticism. For instance, his provocative signage—”Leave the Mask, Take the Cannoli”—attracted significant media attention, illustrating his unique approach to activism in the food industry.
This legal fight, however, isn’t just a personal endeavor for Roman; it embodies a larger cultural clash over freedom and government authority during the pandemic era. He reflects on the broader implications of this struggle, warning that the complacency of many during the lockdown has enabled further governmental control. Roman believes it is essential to resist any attempts to rewrite history regarding the pandemic’s response. “Tentative acts of defiance… weaken the standard needed for fighting tyrants and winning,” he declared, emphasizing the seriousness of his motives.
Roman recognizes the reality that the outcome of his lawsuit will rely on the justice system’s willingness to uphold the principles of freedom and liberty. He expressed a blend of hope and skepticism about the judiciary, stating, “We don’t have a history of using the courts when fighting. But this time is different.” This acknowledgment of the legal landscape is crucial, as it reflects a tension between his fighting spirit and the practicalities of navigating the judicial system.
As the case heads to court, the potential implications for Roman, his restaurant, and the broader narrative surrounding COVID-19 policies are significant. This fight may help illuminate the division in perspectives on public health measures and individual rights, drawing attention to the experiences of those who felt oppressed by government mandates. Roman’s legal strategy not only seeks to restore his business but also to challenge a narrative he believes diminishes the sacrifices made by many during lockdowns.
Basilico’s Pasta e Vino, an establishment rooted in family tradition, represents more than just a restaurant for Roman; it is a living tribute to his mother, who founded it in 1999. This personal connection adds a layer of emotional depth to his battle, as Roman continues her legacy while standing against perceived tyranny through his culinary vision.
In Roman’s words, this lawsuit against Gavin Newsom reflects more than a singular struggle over assets—it embodies a commitment to defending the American way of life against what he sees as encroaching governmental power. The forthcoming court decision will be pivotal not only for Roman and his restaurant but also for those who relate to his fight against the perceived injustices of the pandemic response.
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