City Guide: Rome

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By Maria Pasquale

Spirito di Vino

A truly magnificent meal set in a former synagogue built in the 10th century.

Located in a former synagogue built in the 10th century and boasting a cellar which dates back to 80 BC (!), this family-run Slow Food restaurant is a true gem. The Catalanis run the show and they are the epitome of who you want running a restaurant. Chef Eliana helms the kitchen where she uses organic ingredients while her husband Romeo runs the front-of-house helping diners navigate the menu and son Francesco in charge of the wine cellar. They pride themselves on warm service and are always on hand to recount the building’s amazing history and invite diners to peek downstairs to see where they store their fantastic wine collection. It’s a memorable experience all around with the menu evolving with the seasons, but always expect to see Eliana’s signature Fusilli con salsa de Lì Galli (corkscrew pasta with mediterranean ragù of tomato, capers and olives) and Magro di Maiale alla Mazio, a pork dish cooked with spices, apple, leeks and honey – a recipe dating back to the time of Julius Caesar!

Bitesee Tip: Do not leave without ordering the Crema Cotta–an Italian version of Crème Brûlée without the sugar crust. A dessert you will dream of long after you’ve left Rome.

Must try:
Pork Gaio Mazio Style
To-Die-For / Family-Run Gem
$$$
Reservations: Recommended
Hours: Mon-Sat 7-11pm; Closed Sundays
Location: Trastevere
Address:  Via Dei Genovesi, 31 A/B
Phone: 06 589 66 89
 
www.ristorantespiritodivino.com
Ideal for:
  • Rome Restaurants
  • Dinner

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