UPDATE November 2018: Chef Alba Esteve Ruiz has left Marzapane. I truly believe that she was probably why this restaurant was so special, and I can’t speak to how the menu has changed since her departure. I went for her cooking and look forward to hearing about her next steps, so I’m in no hurry to get back to the restaurant without her.
I am a little bit fancy. But just a little bit.
For example, I have a handbag problem. I can justify purses as an “investment piece” and go a little bit crazy. However, my favorite handbag of all is a vintage bucket bag that I picked up at Porta Portese for 10 euro and use almost every day for schlepping around the city on foot because I refuse to pay for taxis.
Besides, if I skip taxis and walk everywhere, then I can buy more shoes. As an investment, of course.
All of this to say that I enjoy a splurge sometimes, but I am totally uncomfortable in silver spoon situations. I cannot stand the kind of fancy that is created to make you feel out of place, which is why I love the just-right luxury of Marzapane.
I know something is good when I completely give up on taking photos and just savor the moment.
That, and the food was so delicious that I realized photos on the go before courses could never serve the flavors justice.
We went with the Marzapane tasting menu for just €39:
Amuse bouche of prosciutto and spicy mustard.
Pork belly with mustard, sundried tomatoes, nespole and onions.
Tortellini in a potatoes and paprika broth with the best morsel of roasted octopus I have ever tasted.
Carbonara.
Stinco di Maiale (pork) with potatoes, bell pepers and roast garlic sauce.
Chocolate cake with hazelnut, peanuts, and cinnamon.
Marzapane is a fantastic option if you are planning a special occasion on in Rome. It was by far one of my favorite dining experiences in Rome because it was welcoming and luxurious without ever making us feel in over our heads.
The wine menu was also accessible and affordable, and at the end of the meal, we were sent home with cookies to enjoy the next day.
What are you waiting for? You can reserve online.
Marzapane Roma
Via Velletri 39
Rome, Italy
Phone: +39 06 6478 1692
Open: 1 pm – 3 pm for lunch, and 8 pm – 11 pm for dinner. Closed Wednesdays.
Looks like the perfect place. Must be kismet. We are staying on via Piave! I have put it on the list. Thanks.
Ah! So perfect! This really was one of the best tasting menus I have done in Rome and it felt like a great value for the price. I hope that you have a chance to try and to enjoy it!