Rome is an enchanting place and, for the curious traveler, it has been the epitome of adventure for centuries. Poetry, films, and music have shared its wonders and charm with the world; there is nothing like arriving in the Eternal City.
In its heart, close to the Trevi fountain, one of the most iconic symbols of Italy, lies the imposing Casa Cau: luxury serviced apartments as unique as its surroundings.
With keys in hand to unlock one of the ancient, restored doors, you can experience one of six wonderful vintage apartments: a time capsule of 1950s and 1970s Roman cool in a historical building that dates back to the 18th century. The apartments were conceived to showcase the great furniture design, history, and the love of traveling of its owner Mr. Pino Cau, an Italian entrepreneur and world connoisseur.
As a friend, Pino has introduced me to the most beloved local eateries in town. My ‘where to eat’ tips? You got it!
Pierluigi
Pierluigi is a city institution serving some of the best seafood in Rome since 1938. Chic and relaxed.
Piazza Dè Ricci, 144
Rome, Italy
+39 06 686 8717
http://www.pierluigi.it
Al Moro
Al Moro is a sensational experience. Next to the Trevi Fountain, where you do not expect to find anything original, you get this pleasant surprise: the pasta is amazing and the Mont Blanc – a chestnut dessert – my favorite.
13, Vicolo Bollette
Tel. +39 06 69940736
http://www.ristorantealmororoma.com
Baffetto Pizzeria
This tiny, noisy, energetic place makes pizza that takes your breath away! DELICIOUS!
Via del Governo Vecchio, 114
Rome, Italy
+39 06 686 1617
http://www.pizzeriabaffetto.it
Settimio al Pellegrino
Teresa and her husband Mario make a traditional Roman menu: gnocchi on Thursdays and fettuccine on Sundays.
Via del Pellegrino, 117
Rome, Italy
+39 06 6880 1978
Cul de Sac
This place next to the G-Rough Luxury Hotel is lively and stays open until late. Always exciting. For a good and quick meal.
Piazza di Pasquino, 73
Rome, Italy
+39 06 6880 1094
http://www.enotecaculdesacroma.it
Gelateria del Teatro
Once in Rome, free yourself from the diet and be happy with your gelato. There are several good choices in town, but my favorite is Gelateria del Teatro. Not only because I like to walk there passing Piazza Navona on the way to the river and Ponte Sant ‘Angelo, but also because I always lose myself and discover a new alleyway in the labyrinth of Rome. Try the salvia ice cream, it’s divine!
Via dei Coronari 65/66 Rome
http://www.gelateriadelteatro.it
Don’t miss it
Campo de Fiori
A local market full of freshness, flavors and fragrances. Here are the best fair products of Rome: zucchini flowers, artichokes, and the best tomatoes in town. A delight.
Via del Governo Vecchio
Here it is for lovers of original products, small independent shops and many thrift shops, with vintage pearls for those who enjoy a different and original experience and want to escape the crowded streets of the historic center and look for something more personal.
At Casa Cau, all apartments come with a practical kitchen – coffee, tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, and pasta are at your disposal for that quick in-house meal, and breakfast is delivered every morning in charming straw baskets at your door. Seletti china and cutlery, organic jams, and olive oil produced by the owner’s own farm and vintage champagne glasses from Sardinia are attentive details that elevate the experience of using the open-plan kitchen.
You can watch the thrilling Italian street dynamics from your balcony or retire from the noise and street life altogether by only closing your soundproofed large windows.
Be inspired
There are many great films about Rome, but my favorite one by far is La Grande Belleza by Paolo Sorrentino.
“In the end, it is only a trick.” – La Grande Belleza
And should you wish to explore the in-the-know gourmet scene in Rome, Casa Cau has Stazione di Posta, a Michelin-starred restaurant in the up-and-coming area of Testaccio. The restaurant is a contemporary take on the traditional and famous Italian cuisine, a bio-gourmet experience.
My best experience of Rome was by Pino Cau’s introduction of a Rome that is young, adventurous, and free. It’s like the frescoes on the ancient palaces, telling a story that is still on the making and waiting for you to add your chapter to it, your own tale of Rome.
Pictures by Casa Cau
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