Archived entries for Pasta
Trattoria da Leo, Lucca
In Italy, a good bit of advice when it comes to eating out is to avoid the large touristy piazzas, occasionally though this rule doesn’t isn’t applicable and in this particular instance it couldn’t be further from the truth. Trattoria da Leo is a small family run operation just off one of the main piazzas. Serving traditional Lucchesi classics, plus a few Italian favourites, it is a great place to mix with the locals and sample some amazing traditional fare.
Osteria dell’Orsa, Bologna
It seems like this cosy little osteria is one of the most universally loved places I have ever read about, sadly I don’t think I can agree. It’s certainly cheap and cheerful, and in its defence the staff and atmosphere are great too, but if your’re looking for good Bolognese food, I would recommend paying a little bit extra and going somewhere else.
Roma Sparita, Trastevere, Rome
A few year’s ago this place was a closely guarded local secret, hidden away in the corner of a secluded courtyard, only a select few people were lucky enough to know about it, but all that has changed thanks to an American food writer called Anthony Bourdain. Since he featured the restaurant on his TV show, No Reservations, the place has become a tourist Mecca and they all go for the one thing, the best bowl of Cacio e Pepe in Rome.
Malletti Pizzeria, Soho, London
Serving up a small slice of Rome in London’s west-end, Malletti’s was dreamed up by a chef from Naples back in the mid 90’s called Antonio Malletti. Not particularly keen on his native Neapolitan style of wood-fired pizza, he believed the Roman interpretation was more appealing to customers because it was so easy to eat and he liked the idea of having the wide selection of different flavours to choose from, and I have to say that I agree.
Taverna La Lanterna, Spoleto
Specialising in traditional Umbrian food, Taverna La Lanterna is a favourite with tourists and locals alike. Located in the stunning hilltop village of Spoleto, it is more than worth making the journey if you are ever nearby. Serving amazing local food and at very reasonable prices, it is one of the most authentic Italian eating experiences you are likely to come across.
Trattoria Mario, Florence
Loud, lively and always busy, the secret to trattoria Mario’s success is no great mystery. The food is fresh and homemade, most of the ingredients are sourced from the central food market only a few metres away, the menu changes daily, the quality is always exceptional, the service is friendly and the prices are unbeatable.
Le Mani in Pasta, Trastevere, Rome
Managing to achieve the perfect balance between an unpretentious, local trattoria and a sleek upscale restaurant, for such a modest budget Le Mani in Pasta is as close to the perfect eating venue as you are likely to find in Rome or anywhere for that matter.
Pizzeria La Montecarlo, Centro Storico, Rome
A few steps from the busy Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, Pizzeria La Montecarlo is located in the heart of Rome’s historic centre, but don’t let that put you off. Serving simple, no-frills Roman food, this one of the few restaurants in this heavily touristic area that serves up consistently good food and at a great price.
Pastificio Taddei, Prati, Rome
Selling some of the freshest egg pasta available in Rome, this small shop only five minutes walk from the Vatican has been around since 1932 and it makes every different variety of pasta you could imagine.
