Where To Dine in Rome
TRATTORIA AL MORO
Vicolo delle Bollette, 13
Tel: +39 06 678 3495
It's tucked into a narrow street just steps from the Trevi Fountain, but is completely non-touristy. The thoughtful menu is a mix of classics, and seasonal dishes. I had the Carciofi alla Romana which are a must, simply served with olive oil - it was like cutting into butter. Followed by the house pasta, which is the best carbonara l've ever tasted. Made with wafer thin slices of guanciale (smoked pork cheeks). The dining room is fairly formal; definitely make a reservation in advance if you can. I ate outdoor because the weather was beautiful.
GIGGETTO
Via del Portico d'Ottavia 21
Tel: +39 06 68611 05
I had the best oxtail of my life here! It's in the Jewish quarter of Rome. Being in the Jewish quarter they specialise in Roman Jewish cuisine. You also must try their famous Carciofi alla Giudea: deep- fried artichokes and the delicious Cacio Peppe.
NINO
Via Borgognona 11 [Close to the Spanish steps)
Te: +39 06 6795676
Open since 1935, this trattoria serves classic Tuscan food. The Carciofi alla Romana was so buttery the best l'd tasted in the city, the grilled squid was so fresh and perfectly cooked, delicious. The house dish Nino Cannelloni was filled with slow cooked tender veal, divine. And we finished with dipping cantuccini into vino Santo, a must! Despite being just around the corner from the Piazza di Spagna, the restaurant itself was filled with local Romans.
LA MATRICIANA
Via del Viminale, 44
Tel: +39 06 4881775
This is an old school restaurant, in the equally old school, Esquilino neighborhood, opposite the opera house. We ordered wafer thin freshly sliced plate of Parma ham, that melted in the mouth. Bowls of the sweetest juiciest clam spaghetti, followed by their house tiramisu. We both agreed it was our favourite restaurant in Rome.
