Roma Sparita
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About
Located in the quiet, residential part of Trastevere overlooking the beautiful Piazza di Santa Cecilia, this restaurant gained international fame after being featured by Anthony Bourdain. It is famous for its unique presentation of 'Tagliolini Cacio e Pepe' served in a crispy, edible parmesan cheese bowl. The atmosphere is charming and less frantic than the heart of Trastevere. Expert recommendation: the Cacio e Pepe in the cheese bowl is the undisputed star of the menu. Pro tip: try to secure a table outside in the piazza during the spring or summer for one of the most peaceful and authentic-feeling dinners in Rome. Reservations are highly recommended.
Highlights
- Famous Cacio e Pepe in parmesan bowl
- Quiet Trastevere piazza
- Authentic Roman kitchen
- Anthony Bourdain featured
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Da Enzo al 29
Tucked away in a quieter corner of Trastevere, this no-frills trattoria is legendary for serving some of the most authentic Roman food in the city. The atmosphere is boisterous and cramped, with tables spilling onto the sidewalk. The sensory experience is dominated by the sound of laughter and the aroma of frying artichokes. Expert recommendation: the 'Burrata with Sun-dried Tomatoes' followed by their 'Carbonara' or 'Rigatoni alla Gricia' is the quintessential meal here. Pro tip: they do not take dinner reservations for small groups, and the line starts forming 30 minutes before they open. Go for lunch at 12:15 PM for the shortest wait.
Isola Tiberina (Tiber Island)
This boat-shaped island in the middle of the Tiber has been associated with healing since ancient times, formerly housing a temple to Aesculapius and now a major hospital. It is connected to the mainland by the Pons Fabricius, the oldest original bridge in Rome (62 BC). The atmosphere is cool and refreshing, with the sound of the river rushing over the weirs. Expert recommendation: walk down the stairs to the river level to see the island's 'prow' carved in stone. Pro tip: during summer, the island hosts 'L'Isola del Cinema,' an outdoor film festival with bars and stalls along the riverbanks. It’s a great shortcut when walking between the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere.
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Aventine Keyhole
On the quiet Aventine Hill, the Priory of the Knights of Malta features a nondescript green door with a famous secret. Looking through the keyhole, you see a perfectly framed view of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica at the end of a manicured garden hedge. This architectural 'optical illusion' is a testament to 18th-century design by Giovanni Battista Piranesi. Expert recommendation: notice the sovereign status of the site; you are looking across three territories—the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, the nation of Italy, and the Vatican. Pro tip: expect a queue even in the off-season. Visit during the 'Golden Hour' for a glowing view of the dome, but ensure your camera lens is small enough to fit against the keyhole.
Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)
Formally known as Parco Savello, this walled garden is famous for its fragrant bitter orange trees and its terrace overlooking the Tiber River. It offers one of the most serene and cinematic vistas of Rome, stretching from the river to St. Peter's. The atmosphere is tranquil, often accompanied by the sound of a street harpist or guitarist. Expert recommendation: it’s the ultimate sunset spot in the city; the light hitting the St. Peter's dome is magical. Pro tip: it is located just a few minutes' walk from the Aventine Keyhole, so combine these two. Visit in late spring when the orange blossoms scent the entire garden, making for a truly immersive sensory experience.
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