When exploring Rome for the first time, many people focus their attention on the city's unique history and art by walking around the city and visiting museums. In my opinion, however, Italian cuisine is an art that is not to be missed. Here are five of my favorite Italian culinary masterpieces:
1. Fried artichokes
Fried artichokes may be the best starter for your dinner in Rome. Carciofi alla giudia, or Jewish-style artichokes, originated in Rome’s historically Jewish neighborhood. I would suggest the popular restaurant Piperno, which is a popular restaurant in the Jewish Ghetto. Romans also suggest trying Carciofi alla Romana, which is artichoke sautéed in lemon and wine. Taverna dei Fori Imperiali’s artichokes are definitely worth tasting!
2. Suppli
Suppli are created from white rice, tomato sauce, and mozzarella, similar to the Sicilian arancini. Very simple and very delicious! For me it is the perfect snack to-go. The best suppli I have tried are sold in the shop I Suppli, which is a 10 minute walk from John Cabot’s Guarini campus.
3. Cacio e pepe
The name of this pasta is literally translated as “cheese and pepper.” It is made with black pepper and pecorino romano cheese, typically served over long, thin spaghetti. There is no better place to taste this dish than Rome, where the dish was originally invented. I suggest trying cacio e pepe at the restaurant Cacio e Pepe, which has managed to remain a surprisingly hidden spot for the tourists.
4. Saltimbocca alla Romana
This dish is veal and sage wrapped in prosciutto, and slowly cooked in white wine and butter. You can try a modern version of this traditional dish in Osteria Mavi or Giulio Passami L'Olio. Trust me, you will not be disappointed!
5. Carbonara
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Roman food is obviously pasta alla carbonara! The top three restaurants for carbonara in Rome are Flavio al Velavevodetto in Testaccio, Da Danilo, and Roscioli.
What are your favorite Roman dishes? Try Italian cuisine while studying in John Cabot University!
Anastasiia Komarova
Communications Major
Class of 2018
Hometown: Moscow, Russia
