My Italian Roadmap: A Whistle-Stop Tour of Rome's Culinary Heart
At Devour, we take pride in blending authentic Italian flavours with a touch of British finesse—but at its heart, our cooking always comes back to heritage. Recently, I had the joy of reconnecting with my own roots on a short but flavour-packed family trip to Rome—a city I hadn’t stepped foot in for over 20 years.
It was time to return, to introduce our children to this iconic capital of culture, history and, of course, food, and to refill my creative cup for the season ahead.
Day One: Pasta, Gelato & Pure Nostalgia
After landing at CIA airport late evening, we checked into a charming apartment on Via della Reginella, nestled in the heart of the Jewish Quarter. With cobbled streets outside our window and anticipation in the air, we couldn’t wait to explore.
Our first full day began at Piazza della Bocca della Verità, home to the famous Mouth of Truth. From there, it was a dream come true to dine at Roma Sparita, a personal favourite and one famously celebrated by Anthony Bourdain for its no-nonsense traditional pasta—especially their unbeatable Cacio e Pepe served in a crisp parmesan basket.
Afternoon took us past the Trevi Fountain for that classic coin toss, and then to the iconic Giolitti for a gelato that lived up to its legendary reputation. Dinner found us tucked away in Il Duca in Trastevere, thanks to a few lovely tips from our very own Devourees (grazie!).
Tip: Trastevere, with its ivy-clad facades and bohemian spirit, is best experienced at night. It’s alive with music, candlelit courtyards, and a rustic charm that’s pure magic.
Day Two: City Icons & Local Institutions
A slow morning wandering to Piazza Navona and marvelling at the Pantheon led us to Osteria da Fortunata for lunch. There’s always a queue (they don’t take bookings), but arrive by noon and you’ll slide in just in time to see pasta hand-rolled right before your eyes.
Dinner was at Su Ghetto, deep in the Jewish Quarter, where we sampled Jewish-Roman dishes rich in tradition and flavour—proof that the soul of a city is always on the plate.
Day Three: Keyholes, Pizza & Vatican Views
We started the day with something special: the secret keyhole view of St Peter’s Basilica from Aventine Hill—an off-the-beaten-path moment that took our breath away.
After wandering the art-filled street of Via Margutta, we climbed the Spanish Steps, before heading to the game-changer of Roman pizza: Bonci Pizzarium. Known for its slow-risen dough and chef-led toppings, this spot was a revelation in texture, flavour, and creativity.
That evening, we returned to Trastevere, where I happily devoured another round of Cacio e Pepe and raised a glass of Dolcetto d’Alba to a city that never fails to inspire.
Day Four: Arrivederci, Roma
Our final day was a bittersweet goodbye. We left half a stone heavier, our hearts full, and our minds racing with ideas for Devour’s Spring Menu. The trip was a reminder of how much beauty lives in simplicity, tradition, and good food shared with loved ones.
When in Rome… Eat These:
Cacio e Pepe – simple, peppery, and perfect
Carbonara – no cream, just yolk, guanciale, and tradition
Amatriciana – tomato, pecorino, and pancetta done right
Supplì – Rome’s take on arancini, gooey and golden
Pizza Romana – thin, crisp, and always satisfying
Carciofi alla Romana – tender artichokes braised with herbs
Carciofi alla Giudia – crispy, golden Jewish-style artichokes
Tiramisu – order it everywhere, eat it always
Bringing It All Back to Holmfirth
This trip wasn’t just a holiday—it was a reconnection. A deep dive into why I started Devour in the first place. You’ll see Rome’s flavours and soul reflected in dishes across our new Spring menu, from hand-rolled pasta to bold antipasti and a few twists inspired by Trastevere’s late-night magic.
We can’t wait to share it with you.
Buon appetito, and see you soon at the Dyehouse.