5 Dishes to not miss out on when in Rome
A Culinary Journey Through Rome: Discovering the Eternal City's Finest Dishes
Rome, the Eternal City, is not just a treasure trove of ancient history and art; it's also a paradise for food lovers. With a rich culinary tradition that dates back centuries, the city offers an array of delectable dishes that capture the essence of Roman cuisine. At Orexi, we believe that experiencing the best of Rome means indulging in its iconic dishes at the finest dining venues. Here’s a guide to savouring Rome’s must-try dishes, each crafted to perfection at some of the city’s most recommended eateries.
Maritozzo: A Sweet Start to Your Day
Begin your Roman culinary adventure with a maritozzo, a delightful sweet bun filled with luscious whipped cream. This breakfast treat is a testament to the city’s love for artisanal pastries.
Where to Try It: Pasticcieria Regoli
Located in the heart of Rome, Pasticcieria Regoli has been a staple for pastry lovers since 1916. Renowned for its high-quality ingredients and traditional methods, Regoli’s maritozzo is a must-try. The soft, slightly sweet bun, filled to the brim with fresh, velvety cream, is the perfect way to start your day in Rome. The family-run patisserie prides itself on its artisanal approach, ensuring each bite is a taste of perfection.
Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe: A Classic Roman Dish
No trip to Rome is complete without trying tonnarelli cacio e pepe, a simple yet incredibly flavourful pasta dish. Made with just three ingredients—pecorino cheese, black pepper, and fresh egg pasta—this dish is a true embodiment of Roman culinary ingenuity.
Where to Try It: Felice a Testaccio
For an authentic cacio e pepe experience, head to Felice a Testaccio. This beloved restaurant has been serving locals and tourists alike since 1936. At Felice, the pasta is mixed at your table, allowing you to witness the magic of this dish coming together. The creamy sauce, perfectly balanced with the sharpness of pecorino and the heat of black pepper, coats the tonnarelli beautifully, making each bite a celebration of Roman flavours.
Supplì al Telefono: A Delightful Snack
Supplì al telefono are deep-fried rice balls filled with mozzarella, which stretches like a telephone wire when bitten into. These crispy, cheesy, moreish delights are a favourite street food in Rome.
Where to Try It: Supplizio
For some of the best supplì in Rome, visit Supplizio. This charming eatery combines sophistication with authenticity, offering a range of traditional Roman snacks. The supplì here are perfectly crispy on the outside, with a gooey, cheesy center that oozes deliciousness. Supplizio’s dedication to quality and tradition ensures that each supplì is a bite of Roman culinary heritage.
Rigatoni alla Carbonara: The Quintessential Roman Pasta
Dive into rigatoni alla carbonara, a dish that epitomises the richness of Roman cuisine. Made with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper, this pasta dish is a creamy, savoury delight.
Where to Try It: Roscioli Salumeria
Roscioli Salumeria is the place to savour an exceptional carbonara. This renowned establishment seamlessly blends traditional recipes with high-end dining. The rigatoni alla carbonara at Roscioli is perfectly cooked and coated in a creamy sauce, with the guanciale adding a delightful crunch and depth of flavour. Dining at Roscioli is not just about the food; it’s about experiencing the essence of Roman culinary tradition in a refined setting.
Bucatini all’Amatriciana: A Flavourful Experience
Bucatini all’amatriciana is another Roman classic that you cannot miss. This dish features bucatini pasta tossed in a rich tomato sauce with guanciale and pecorino cheese.
Where to Try It: Antica Pesa
For an elegant take on this traditional dish, visit Antica Pesa in Trastevere. Established in 1922, this historic restaurant offers a refined dining experience in a beautiful, atmospheric setting. The bucatini all’amatriciana at Antica Pesa is a perfect blend of tangy tomato sauce, salty pecorino, and rich guanciale. The restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients shines through in every bite.
Rome’s culinary landscape is as rich and diverse as its history. Each of these dishes offers a unique glimpse into the flavours that define Roman cuisine. At Órexi, we believe that experiencing these iconic dishes at the city’s finest dining venues is an essential part of any visit to Rome. Whether you're starting your day with a sweet maritozzo or indulging in a delightful pasta dish, Rome’s culinary treasures are sure to leave a lasting impression. Buon appetito!
5 Tiny Italian Islands you’ve probably never visited
What Makes These Italian Islands So Special?
At Órexi, we believe that luxury travel is not just about where you go, but how you experience it. Italy, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine, offers some of the most captivating destinations in the world. Among these, the Italian islands stand out for their unique charm and culinary delights. Here’s a closer look at what makes five of these islands so special.
Panarea: The Gem of the Aeolian Islands
Panarea, the smallest of the seven inhabited Aeolian islands, is a haven of picturesque beauty and luxurious tranquility. Known for its bougainvillea-covered cobbled streets, this stunning island offers breathtaking views of the Stromboli volcano. Visitors can indulge in the island's natural thermal mud baths and relax on its unique black beaches. Panarea is also famous for its elegant and vibrant entertainment scene, attracting VIPs and celebrities who seek both elegance and privacy. Whether you're strolling through its charming streets or enjoying the nightlife, Panarea promises an unforgettable experience.
Pantelleria: A Retreat for the Elite
Situated between Sicily and Tunisia, Pantelleria is a small volcanic island that has long been a favored retreat for the elite. This island is renowned for its world-famous capers and Passito di Pantelleria, a sweet wine made from zibibbo grapes. This ancient cultivation practice is so esteemed that it has been recognized by UNESCO. Visitors to Pantelleria can savor these local delicacies while enjoying the island's rugged coastline, dramatic lava formations, and luxurious accommodations. It's a perfect blend of natural beauty and refined luxury.
Procida: Italy’s Cultural Capital
Procida, located in the Bay of Naples, holds the prestigious title of Italy’s Capital of Culture for 2022. This accolade marks the first time an island has received such an honor. Procida is known for its pastel-colored houses, charming marina cafes, and narrow, winding streets. It gained international fame as a filming location for "The Talented Mr. Ripley," yet it remains delightfully less crowded than its more famous neighbors, Ischia and Capri. This makes Procida an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences and cultural immersion away from the typical tourist paths.
Favignana: The Turquoise Jewel of the Aegadian Islands
Favignana, the largest of the Aegadian islands, is celebrated for its turquoise sea and shallow bays, making it a designated marine protected area. Its flat coastline is perfect for exploration, whether by foot or bicycle, allowing visitors to discover a new beach each day. The island also offers a unique cultural experience with its museum dedicated to the history of tuna fishing, located in a former tuna fishery that was once one of the largest in the Mediterranean. Favignana is a paradise for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Lampedusa: A Culinary and Scenic Delight
Lampedusa, the southernmost island of Italy, is famed for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. This island is a culinary paradise, renowned for its delicious seafood, particularly the local red shrimp. Visitors can enjoy gourmet dining experiences that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often in upscale restaurants with stunning sea views. The combination of exquisite cuisine and breathtaking natural beauty makes Lampedusa a unique and special destination.
Experience the Best of Italian Islands with Órexi
At Órexi, we specialise in creating luxurious travel experiences that immerse you in the local culture and culinary traditions of your destination. Whether you're looking to explore the charming streets of Panarea, taste the world-renowned wines of Pantelleria, or relax on the pristine beaches of Lampedusa, we tailor our itineraries to ensure you experience the best each island has to offer.
Discover the magic of these Italian islands with Órexi, where every journey is a feast for the senses.