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You know the old adage that goes “when in Rome do as the Romans”? Well there is probably nothing better to let you revel in all things Roman than hopping from one Roman restaurant to another, sampling their decadent pastas and pizzas, having one Roman gustatory adventure after another. There are so many restaurants and pizzerias to explore, not to mention those hole-in-the-wall cafes that also offer a host of Roman delicacies and specialties.
Of course, it might be time consuming, not to mention rather expensive, to try all these restaurants out. I am sure you won’t even want to talk about the effects it will have after on your waistline and in your diet, but here are a few food places in Rome that are highly recommended and are worth giving a try if you find yourself whisked in one of those Italian getaways one of these days:
- Agustarello. This restaurant is just one block away from the Piazza Santa Maria Liberatrice and offers alfresco dining during summertime when there are a lot of tourists in the Piazza. People come here for the simple in its perfection pasta, as well as the offal. The tripe slow cooked in mint and tomato is also worth a try.
- Il Convivio di Troianai. Opened by three brothers who share the same passion for food in 1990, Il Convivio di Troianai is considered one of the best restaurants in the city. Mostly frequented for special occasions, you can go anytime you desire to experience the well-designed rooms, as well as the lovely tableware. Many old Italian culinary favorites are given new and exciting twists, one of the most recommended of which is Angelo’s boneless oxtail creation.
- Roma Sparita. Hidden in one of the most beautiful piazzas in Travestere, Piazza di Santa Cecilia, Roma Sparita is frequented both by local and foreign tourists for simple yet delectable Roman cuisine. Must try from their short menu include the crispy shells of cacao e pepe pasta and cozze alla marinara, a mouthwatering dish of mussels with tomatoes.
- Tavernaccia. This family run restaurant is frequented by locals for one of the exceptional pasta dishes paired with hand sliced delicious garlic bruschetta. Do not forget to order the one of their family style lasagna dishes, as well as one of their luscious homemade desserts. Like most Italian restaurants and trattorias, alfresco dining is also offered during summertime.
- Vascello. Although owned by a Sardinian cople, this restaurant high up the Monteverde region of Rome is well known for its carbonara and matriciana dishes. Order a good selection of meat dishes, along with thin, crisp pizza for dinner and you will have one gastronomic adventure. The torta di ricotta is also a must try.
- Il Tempio di Eside. If you have a number of pizza slices for days on end while in Rome, it will be a great idea to check out this restaurant for their good seafood. Start with their pasta with spider crab and agnoletti with sword fish. A good wine will be just perfect to cap your wonderful meal.
- Marzapane. If you have had enough of pizza {which is probably next to impossible}, the experimental eatery of Marzapane is your next best bet for dinner later. Their lunch feast of gourmet salads and sandwiches are a must try, as well as the more adventurous meal of piglet in strawberry sauce.
- Arancia Blu. For the vegetarians who braved the meat-loving city of Rome, you are simply in luck by visiting one of the top vegan restaurants in the city. Sample the mustard ravioli and order a generous serving of almond, avocado and cumin salad with egg free mayonnaise.
- Restaurant Roof Garden. This place probably offers the best alfresco dining amongst its contemporaries in Rome. Imagine marveling at The Colosseum and the Roman Forum while having dinner? Salt cod with zucchini flowers and Carlofonte tuna in decadent avocado sauce are just a few of the many things you have to sample in their menu.
- Imago. This restaurant has the distinction of being one of the oldest luxury rooftop restaurants in the city and boasts of a 360 degree view of the city’s historical center. Chef Francesco is a master at blending his age old Roman recipes with Asian ingredients. Amongst the most recommended dishes to sample are roasted pigeon with black tea, black cod glazed in sake and cappelletti pasta with cocoa powder.
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