Testaccio’s La Torricella

It felt almost warm enough to be spring this weekend, which made me long for outdoor lunches at La Torricella.

Outside Torricella Testaccio

La Torricella is a restaurant in Testaccio, tucked far enough away from the epicenter of the piazza that is remains a bit off the map.

I can sense that changing, but it won’t matter – La Torricella will remain our local.

Torricella Testaccio

La Torricella is where we go to celebrate successes, big and small.

We have toasted engagements, visits and promotions here.

wine and water

But it is also where we go for no reason at all. (Except for the fact that maybe it is a Tuesday and we don’t feel like cooking).

Natalie Kennedy Rome

I love the simple white table clothes and the distinctive red-rimmed plates piled high with pasta.

Spaghetti alle vongole

I can rarely resist spaghetti alle vongole (with clams).

broccoli e vongole

The waiters are relaxed and Roman, but professional.  They will always offer you first the daily specials, pastas and secondi, almost always with a fish twist.

antipasto

The owner will roll by with a cart of antipasti (say yes to the moscardini fritti), and you can browse the seasonal side dishes along the banquet as you enter.

pesce del giorno

The restaurant is known for its fish specials, but if you don’t spot anything you like on the always updated daily menu, ask for the extensive standard menu. More than likely, they will whip you up a cacio e pepe or carbonara on request.

La Torricella

Booking is recommended, especially if you want a table outside in the summer (and trust me, you do want that).  You will also want to save room for dessert.

I’m sure we’ll see you there.

La Torricella
Via Evangelista Torricelli, 2/12,
Roma, Italy
Phone: +39 06 574 6311

Open: Daily, from 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm; and 7:30 pm – 12:00 am.

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