Located just down the street from Circo Massimo, and a short walk from the offices of FAO, Casa Manfredi is a family-run pastry shop that takes its sweets seriously.
Most of the shop on Viale Aventino is actually given over to make space for the glass-walled kitchen. Starting at 7:30 am every day, you can see the bakers hard at work creating little bits of deliciousness.
While I have an obvious soft spot of Italian pastries, what I love most about Casa Manfredi is their more French approach to morning offerings. Here you will find cornetti, but also croissants.
When I went this morning, I actually ordered a second pastry because I couldn’t resist how pretty the “cestino” topped with cream, pistachios, and a little strawberry looked when it was brought out fresh on a new tray. Honestly, why limit yourself to just one Rome breakfast?
The pastries pair perfectly with the Lavazza coffee (which is my favorite independent Italian coffee brand when more specialty coffee isn’t available). The coffee served at Casa Manfredi is 100% Arabica single origin espresso grind.
It is also hard to resist the collection of tiny tarts that sparkle like little gems, sitting atop buttery crust, and/or made with rich Valrhona chocolate. The small versions are just €1 (making the indulgence fully justifiable from a price standpoint), and larger versions ring in around €6. For even more special occasions, you can order full-sized cakes.
While I completely understand the decision to use most of the small space to actually bake and make the gelato – it does mean that there is zero indoor seating. Luckily, there are tables outside on Viale Aventino (but keep in mind that there is a small surcharge for table service).
It is worth it for this small taste of Frenchy-Italian sweetness.
Casa Manfredi
Viale Aventino, 91/93
Rome, Italy (San Saba/Aventino)
Open Monday – Saturday from 7:30 am – 10 pm, and Sunday from 8 am – 8 pm.
What is the typical charge to sit down? I’m going to Rome for the first time this October and am doing my research. I’m loving your page. Thanks.
It really depends on the place. Near the Pantheon, maybe a coffee will cost €7 at the table (you’re paying for the view). Here the surcharge is more like 50 cents (which isn’t much at all)
Oh my god. I am going to Rome this August. Your blog is really really awesome. It is full of useful information! Thank you!