Our Story

Rooted in Tradition.
Built for Today.

At Rania’s, we believe food should feel generous, gatherings should feel joyful, and every event should reflect the people it’s meant to celebrate. Everything we do is built around the people in the room—their tastes, their stories, and the experience we’re creating together.

This isn’t just a business. It’s a continuation of everything I’ve always loved about food, people, and the magic that happens when you bring them together.

"Rania's was an absolute dream to work with!"

- Adrianne K.

The Story Continues

Melanie Sanfilippo-Hoover

Owner

What makes Rania’s special isn’t just the food; it’s the care and attention behind every detail. We believe gatherings, whether big or small—should feel joyful, personal, and easy to enjoy. And that great service doesn’t just show up the day of. It starts the moment you reach out.

We work closely with every client to bring their vision to life, whether it’s a backyard baby shower or a 200-person wedding under a tent. Our team is experienced, steady, and kind, and we know how to handle the details so you don’t have to. From menu planning to cleanup, we’re with you every step of the way.

Rania’s is still based in our original Mt. Lebanon kitchen, but the flavors, formats, and faces have evolved over time. What hasn’t changed? Our commitment to quality, flexibility, and treating every event like it matters, because to us, it does.

"Rania's staff always responded to my inquiries promptly and professionally.

- Lauren R.

For nearly 40 years, Rania’s has been part of Pittsburgh’s most meaningful gatherings. Founded by Rania Harris in 1985, the business began with a single kitchen, a love of good food, and a reputation for excellence that quickly spread. Rania’s passion for hospitality and quality helped shape the city’s catering scene, bringing scratch-made menus, warm service, and joy to every event.

Today, that legacy continues under the care of Melanie Sanfilippo-Hoover, who brings her own deep roots in hospitality and a lifelong love of feeding people. Raised around lively dinner tables and grounded in the belief that food is both a craft and a connection, Melanie carries forward everything that made Rania’s special while expanding its reach for a new generation.

Melanie Sanfilippo-Hoover

Owner