Osteria Degli Amici

Small.

Understated.

Cozy.

Date night.

To me, that is Osteria degli Amici.

This modern osteria still looks old school, but has a menu that balances classics with taking a few liberties.

We realized one afternoon, as we were walking along, that it had been 6 months since our wedding.

Jimmy insisted on gelato.

As soon as I devoured it, I called Osteria degli Amici and made a reservation.

I love this little place for its ambiance, but also for its pici.

Thick, Tuscan pasta – this ristorante serves it with a twists and adds artichoke to its alla gricia dish.  This means carciofi + cheese + bacon, which are three of my favorite things.

However, this being an unplanned celebration, I opted for a filetto, smothered in earthy porcini mushrooms.

Semifreddo allo zabaione rounded out the meal.

I love the vintage touches in the decor, and the overall feel of this friendly neighborhood osteria.  There are usually tables available if you call the same day, but I would always book ahead to be safe and remember the pici.

Osteria degli Amici
Via Nicola Zabaglia, 25,
00153 Roma, Italy (Testaccio)