Hotly Anticipated Italian Eatery Roman God of Fire Sets Tempe Opening Date
Interior rendering of Roman God of Fire's “Mea Culpa” Speakeasy in Tempe, featuring glowing arched forms, sculptural lighting and a richly layered red dining room designed by Peter Bowden of PETERMAX Co.
Phoenix New Times reports that Roman God of Fire will begin accepting a limited number of reservations from July 31 through August 5, 2026, followed by its grand opening on August 7. The 8,000-square-foot Italian restaurant from Pretty Decent Concepts is the hospitality group’s first ground-up development and represents three years of research, planning and construction.
Designed by Peter Bowden of PETERMAX Co., the interior draws upon the art, architecture and rituals of ancient Rome through monumental arches, custom statues, marble surfaces and atmospheric lighting. Chef Scott Conant developed a regionally focused Roman menu featuring handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza bianca and traditional preparations.
The restaurant will also contain Mea Culpa, a hidden modern cocktail lounge that juxtaposes Roman’s theme of virtue with an atmosphere of vice. Guests will enter through an interactive confessional-inspired sequence. Mea Culpa is expected to open in September 2026.
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