When it comes to sampling authentic Italian cuisine, Rome is a city that should be at the top of any food lover’s list. And if you want to taste the best of what this city has to offer, who better to turn to than a local chef?
Pier Daniele Seu Seu Pizza Illuminati in Trastevere is a renowned chef in Rome who has earned accolades for his innovative approach to classic Italian dishes. He is renowned for his super-light dough and experimental toppings, underscored by a respect for tradition, If you’re looking to eat like a chef in Rome, Seu has four rules of thumb:
- Go for quality ingredients.
- Keep it simple.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment.
- Enjoy your food with good company.
PierDaniele Seu’s Rome Restaurant Picks
Retrobottega
Creative duo Giuseppe Lo Ludice and Alessandro Miocchi’s retro bottega stays open from midday through to midnight and the beauty is precisely their non-stop service – though it’s first come, first served. Their focus is entirely on the food and it’s delicious. Try to aim for a seat at the double kitchen counter where you can admire their magic close up. retro-bottega.com
Pascucci
When you want to up the romance or have an occasion to celebrate, this is a wonderful spot. Gianfranco Pascucci’s artistic plates are created with incredible technique and precision, with an impressive selection of fish. This restaurant is very dear to me. pascuccialporticciolo.com
Osteria Dell’Orologio
Perfect for Sunday lunch, especially on a sunny day. Chef Marco Claroni handpicks a rainbow of fish fresh from the boats in Fiumicino each morning and has an incredible ability to fuse tradition and innovation without losing authenticity. osteriadellorologio.ne
ZIA
A new opening in Trastevere that’s perfect for an intimate and elegant dinner. Chefs Antonia and Ida bring a magnetic energy to their kitchen using a wonderful blend of French technique, style and skill to rework flavours. ziarestaurant.com
Pizzarium
It needs no introduction, this rave-busy counter is an institution for anyone who passes through Rome. Thankfully it’s open all day for whenever the desire for pizza overtakes us. bonci.it
A version of this article originally appeared in Luxe City Guides, June 2019.
