Necci dal 1924 is in Rome’s Pigneto neighbourhood
COMPILED BY CATRIONA GREW AND RORY GOULDING, WITH CONTRIBUTIONS FROM DUNCAN GARWOOD AND NICOLA WILLIAMS. PHOTOGRAPHS: PHOTOCUISINE/ALAMY, RICHARD TAYLOR/4CORNERS
EATING
Ai Tre Scalini
ITALIAN
££
(facebook.com/aitrescalini; Via Panisperna 251)
A favourite since 1895, the ‘Three Steps’ is always packed, with crowds spilling out of the funky violet-painted door and into the street. Tuck into a heartwarming array of cheeses, salami and dishes such as polpette al sugo, washed down with superb choices of wine or beer.
Amando al Pantheon
ROMAN ££
(armandoalpantheon.it; Salita dei Crescenzi 31)
With its dedication to old-school Roman cuisine and its cosy atmosphere, this is a regular go-to for local foodies. It’s been on the go for more than 50 years and reservations are essential.
Caffetteria Chiostro del Bramante
CAFÉ £
(chiostrodelbramante.it; Via Arco della Pace 5)
Few cafés are as beautifully sited as this one, on the first floor of Bramante’s Renaissance cloister. It has outdoor tables and an allday menu offering cakes and coffee, baguettes and risottos.
Da Augusto
TRATTORIA £
(00 34 06 580 37 98; Piazza de’ Renzi 15)
Bag an outside table and tuck into some fabulous mamma-style cooking on one of Trastevere’s prettiest piazza terraces. Hearty portions of Roman classics are dished up as well as lots of rabbit, veal and hare. Winter dining is around vintage Formica tables in a bare-bones interior. Be prepared to queue. Cash only.
Flavio al Velavevodetto
ROMAN ££
(ristorantevelavevodetto.it; Via di Monte Testaccio)
In a rustic Pompeian-red villa, this casual eatery is celebrated locally for its no-nonsense Roman cuisine. Expect antipasti of cheeses and cured meats, and huge helpings of homemade pastas.
Hostaria Romana
ROMAN ££
(ristorantespiritodivino.com; Via del Boccaccio 1)