1. Location
The Testaccio Supper Stroll starts at 5:30 PM at Piazza Testaccio. Thanks to the detailed meeting instructions that accompanied our guide, it was super easy to find the location. We got off the underground at Piramide and enjoyed a quick 10-minute walk to the Piazza. Moreover, we even got to see the Pyramid of Cestius, a remarkable structure built between 18-12 BC!
2. Testaccio Supper Stroll Review
During our Testaccio Supper Stroll, we made six delightful food and drink stops, each featuring authentic Italian foods and drinks:
Aperitivo
Our evening began with a classic Italian aperitivo — a Spritz, consisting of Campari, Prosecco, soda water, and a slice of orange. We enjoyed our drinks at a family-run cafe that has a rich history as one of the first places in Rome to serve foreign beer. We also picked up a few Italian phrases to enhance our dining experience.
Street Food
After the aperitivo, we ventured to try two tasty street foods paired with a delightful Prosecco. The first was a Suppli, which is deep-fried risotto with mozzarella hidden inside, offering a delightful surprise. We also sampled deep-fried vegetables including artichokes, broccoli, and courgettes, highlighting the affordable and delicious use of fresh produce in Italian cuisine.
Gourmet Restaurant
Next, we visited a gourmet restaurant where we indulged in local cheeses and jams paired with exquisite wines. The spread included Pecorino sheep’s cheese, burrata, sun-dried cherry tomatoes from Sicily, and rich 24-month aged Parmigiano. This experience provided a fascinating insight into Italy’s rich agricultural traditions.
Sit Down Pasta Meal
We then enjoyed a sit-down pasta meal at Angelina, a restaurant admired for its focus on traditional Roman dishes. We opted for a classic cacio e pepe, served with a robust red wine. An interesting tidbit we learned is that traditional Carbonara contains no cream, and Italians often reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
After Dinner Snack
Our penultimate dish was a Trapizzino, a thick, triangular pizza-bread pocket filled with delicious aubergine and vegetables. This was definitely a standout favorite for its unique presentation and flavors, enjoyed alongside a craft beer for a casual touch.
Dolce
We concluded our Tour with a stop at a traditional Italian gelato shop, where we tasted rich chocolate and invigorating coffee gelato, followed by a classic Grappa to round off the evening.
Insights into Testaccio
The Testaccio area is a hidden gem in Rome, cherished for its culinary offerings rather than archaeological sites. It also has historical significance, being home to the ancient marble pyramid built by Cestius’s descendants. Testaccio also features Monte Testaccio, a unique hill created from terracotta pots discarded by ancient Romans, further solidifying its reputation as a food-lovers’ paradise.
What We Liked about the Testaccio Supper Stroll
Every dish we tasted during the Testaccio Supper Stroll was truly delightful, showcasing the variety and authenticity of Italian cuisine. However, what particularly stood out was our guide, Francesco. His balance of humor and informative storytelling made our experience even more enjoyable.
Additionally, visiting smaller, less crowded places contributed to a more intimate dining experience. We appreciated the early start of the tour, as it meant we could explore without the typical crowds found later in the evening. Overall, the perfect combination of gourmet dishes, relaxed walking, and engaging company made for a memorable culinary journey.
It’s important to mention any dietary requirements when planning your tour. The Testaccio Supper Stroll accommodates vegetarians but may not be suitable for gluten-free diets. Additionally, some locations do feature stairs, so it’s good to be mindful if accessibility is a consideration.