We’ve had a lovely meal before — with a drop-dead terrific view of the Colosseum — at the Michelin-star restaurant Aroma in Palazzo Manfredi. But, it’s definitely priced for a special occasion. So we were delighted to hear that it had opened a more affordable bistro.
While the restaurant has that great view of the Colosseum, the bistro terrace has its own direct view, of the Oppian Hill (under which lies Nero’s Golden House). It’s a more casual and relaxing experience than the formal restaurant, and a lovely place to have lunch. With spring here, now is definitely the time to go and sit outside to enjoy the fresh air.
Chef Giuseppe di Iorio heads up both the restaurant and the bistro. The bistro menu is very limited — indeed, just two choices each for an appetizer, first course, and main course. So, make sure to check out the menu before you go to ensure there’s something you and your dining companions will enjoy.
We were pleased with the menu, as well as the prices, so we found ourselves sitting outside on a lovely, lazy day. To go with our choices, there was a delectable assortment of bread.
For starters, we had the courgette and aubergine millefeuille with ricotta and basil.
And, warm veal carpaccio with truffle and Roman salad.
Next came the very good “Shaken Carbonara” rigatoni — literally shaken before your eyes, in a drink shaker!
For our entree, we had the veal on a cauliflower cream and salsified chips.
We were too stuffed for dessert, but then, a wonderful little tray of complimentary sweets appeared at the end.
Fortunately, we were just able to finish them!
Aroma bistro is a lovely place for lunch on a spring day, and a way to sample a Michelin-star chef’s creations at a bistro price.
UPDATE: As of 2023, it appears that this restaurant has closed.
The Spanish Steps Apartment on Via della Mercede 