Wednesday, August 25, 2010

CHEW'in in Rome













2 weeks ago, I had the great pleasure of experiencing one of the best trips of my life. -
I ventured to Rome, Italy. In the"Eternal City", the people were friendly, the sights were phenomenal and the food was TO DIE FOR. Known for its amazing cuisine, historic visions, and passionate ambiance-Rome's beauty captivated my heart, while its food captivated my senses.
While walking through the streets, we stumbled across, Campo de Fiori. A romantic piazza filled with restaurants, evening strollers, and tasty gelato spots. It is here that we discovered, "Baccanate". We sat outside to enjoy the view and to take in the full Roman evening experience.

The staff was friendly, comical and laid back
-which I enjoy. Yet, it was my dish of choice that had me head over heels in love with "Baccanate".
The "Pappardella di farro con pomodoro piccante e pecorino di fossa" -a spicy tomato pasta with pecorino di fossa cheese - was absolutely savory. The perfect combination of subtle spiciness and Italian seasoning created an awesome dish. I paired the dish with a red wine, Merlot.

If ever in Rome, it is a must.
No trip to Italy is complete without a creamy helping of gelato. The Italian treat is served at several places in Rome. Yet, there are certain places known for the best. -Such as "Giolitti". This historic and well-known gelato spot located near the Pantheon is worth the hype. Granted it is a struggle to fight through the crowd to scream out your order. Yet, one taste of this gelato, and you'll be screaming in pure delectation. I had the cioccolato and stracciatella in a cup. While my cousin and traveling partner had the crema, limoncella, and caramel on a sweet cone.
While in Rome, I sampled several gelatos. Though none compared to the taste of Giolitti. -None.

As a foodie, a trip to Rome was a dream come true.
Many wonder if certain cities, well known for their food are worth all the rave they receive.
Let me be the first to tell you that Rome-is worth it!