When you think of culinary capitals, Rome often stands out not just for its history and architecture, but for its rich gastronomy. What better way to explore Rome's culinary scene than through the eyes of an expert like Stanley Tucci? Known for his passion for food, his travel series, and his own culinary talents, Tucci has explored and shared some of Rome's finest eateries. Here's a comprehensive list of 10 must-visit restaurants in Rome, as recommended by Stanley Tucci himself. 🍝
La Rosetta
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Location: Via della Rosetta, 8/9, 00186 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: La Rosetta, situated right by the Pantheon, is a renowned seafood restaurant. Here, Tucci enjoyed a delightful plate of spaghetti alle vongole, emphasizing the freshness of the ingredients and the simplicity of the preparation.
Signature Dish: Spaghetti alle Vongole - a delicate blend of fresh clams, spaghetti, white wine, garlic, and parsley.
- Note: If you're not a seafood lover, fear not. La Rosetta also offers a range of pasta dishes and exquisite meats, ensuring every palate is catered to. 💡
Ristorante Tazio
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Location: Via Ludovisi, 49, 00187 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: Tazio offers a contemporary take on traditional Italian cuisine. The ambiance is sophisticated, and it's here where Tucci was seen enjoying an innovative dish of lasagna with white truffle.
Signature Dish: Lasagna al Tartufo - layers of creamy béchamel, freshly cooked lasagna, and slivers of white truffle.
- Note: The restaurant is known for its wine selection, making it perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. 🍷
Armando al Pantheon
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Location: Salita dei Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: This is a classic Roman trattoria where Tucci went for an authentic Roman dining experience. The walls, covered with photos and memories, tell stories of the past.
Signature Dish: Carbonara - a deceptively simple dish of eggs, guanciale, pecorino, and black pepper, but one that Armando does exceptionally well.
- Note: They have a second course of various offal dishes which are worth trying for a true Roman culinary adventure. 🍴
Felice a Testaccio
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Location: Via Mastro Giorgio, 29, 00153 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: This historic spot is a tribute to Roman cuisine, particularly known for its cacio e pepe. Tucci was fascinated by their technique of serving the pasta directly in a pecorino cheese wheel.
Signature Dish: Cacio e Pepe - Rome's iconic pasta dish, featuring black pepper and pecorino cheese.
- Note: Make sure to order the oxtail stew; it’s a traditional dish not to be missed. 🥘
Imàgo al Hassler
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Location: Piazza Trinità dei Monti, 6, 00187 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: Nestled in the famous Hassler Hotel, Imàgo offers not just exquisite cuisine but a breathtaking view of Rome from its rooftop location.
Signature Dish: Risotto alla Milanese - a creamy risotto with saffron and bone marrow, paired with stunning vistas.
- Note: The dining experience here is complete with an extensive wine list and impeccable service. 🌆
Osteria Margutta
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Location: Via Margutta, 82, 00187 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: An iconic spot for Roman aperitifs, Tucci enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the true Roman flavors here.
Signature Dish: Ambruso Restaurant provides a taste of Osteria Margutta's favorite, a rich amatriciana.
Note: Their aperitivo hour is famous, so plan your visit accordingly for a true Roman experience. 🍸
Supplì al telefono
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Location: Via dei Chiavari, 34, 00186 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: For something more casual, Tucci recommended this spot known for its fried rice balls or "Supplì".
Signature Dish: Supplì al Telefono - a deep-fried rice croquette with mozzarella which, when broken, stretches like telephone wires.
- Note: It’s a perfect street food to munch on while exploring Rome's ancient ruins. 🥡
Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina
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Location: Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, 00186 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: If you're a lover of Italian cured meats, wines, and cheeses, Roscioli is a must-visit.
Signature Dish: "Five P's" Mortadella & Parmesan Panino - a masterpiece of flavors.
- Note: Make sure to indulge in their wine tasting sessions for a truly Italian experience. 🍷
Il Gabbiano
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Location: Via Antonio Ciamarra, 5, 00151 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: Although a bit off the beaten path, Tucci made it a point to visit for the seafood, especially their signature "Frito Misto".
Signature Dish: Frito Misto - a platter of various fried seafood delicacies, each cooked to perfection.
- Note: A nice touch is their Tiramisu made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream. ☕
Pizzeria Da Baffetto
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Location: Via del Governo Vecchio, 114, 00186 Roma RM
Why You Should Go: While Rome isn’t as famous for pizza as Naples, Tucci found a gem in Da Baffetto, a no-frills pizzeria offering some of Rome's best thin-crust pizzas.
Signature Dish: Margherita - classic with fresh tomato, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil.
- Note: Be prepared to wait; the place is small, and the demand for pizza is high, especially in peak hours. 🍕
If you're looking to delve into Rome's culinary scene, guided by the palate of Stanley Tucci, these restaurants offer not just food but a taste of Roman history, culture, and tradition. Each location holds its unique charm, from the lively ambiance of street-side eateries to the refined settings of historic hotels. Remember, dining in Rome isn't just about eating; it's about experiencing the city’s soul through its food.
FAQs
<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What makes La Rosetta special?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>La Rosetta is special due to its proximity to the Pantheon, its focus on fresh seafood, and its historical reputation. It's a place where Stanley Tucci enjoyed the simplicity and quality of traditional Italian seafood dishes.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I make reservations at these recommended restaurants?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Reservations for many of these restaurants can be made online via their respective websites or through popular reservation platforms like OpenTable or The Fork. For places like Felice a Testaccio, calling in advance is advisable given its small size and popularity.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is it possible to find vegetarian or vegan options in these eateries?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Most of these restaurants do offer vegetarian dishes, but the selection for vegan options might be more limited. Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina, for instance, has a variety of vegetarian options, whereas others might require some customization or advance notice for vegan dishes.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just seeking to indulge in the delights of Roman cuisine, Stanley Tucci’s recommendations provide a curated experience of Rome’s culinary offerings. Enjoy your gastronomic journey through one of the world's greatest cities.