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Rome’s enoteche, or wine bars, are the ideal place to drink wine paired with meat, cheese, or a light meal. Some offer full lunch and dinner service while others stick to the basic antipasto menu. These enoteche are some of my favorites:
Al Vino Al Vino
Via dei Serpenti, 19 (Monti)
Open daily 11AM-2PM, 5PM-1AM
If you need to kick back after a long day of touring the Colosseum and Forum, Al Vino Al Vino is the place to grab a glass of wine and some snacks. The owner’s mother prepares heavy Sicilian dishes such as caponata (tomato and eggplant sauce), melanzana alla parmigiana (eggplant parmesean), or polpette (meatballs). It’s located in a classic and colorful Roman neighborhood.
Via di Teatro Valle, 48/49 (Pantheon)
066865970
Tuesday, Saturday 1030AM-300PM, 6-8PM
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 1030AM-3PM, 6-10PM
The Bleve family has been in the wine business in Rome for decades and this place embodies the culmination of years of experience. I often stop here for a bottle of wine with friends or clients and I am always impressed by their meat and cheese selection. Did I mention there is a 1st century BCE wall built by Marcus Agrippa in their wine cellar? Don’t miss this place.
Palatium Enoteca Regionale
Via Frattina, 94 (Spanish Steps)
0669202132
This enoteca specializes in wines and food from the Lazio region, of which Rome is the capital. It’s proximity to the Spanish Steps draws a professional crowd during lunchtime and happy hour. The decor is minimalist and the atmosphere is low key.
Via Padova, 6/8 (Piazza Bologna)
0644236801
Monday 1800-2400
Tuesday-Saturday 1200-2400
Althought Uve e Forme is in a residential neighborhood outside the city walls, I mention it because it is fantastic. There are also many hotels in walking distance and it is a few minutes walk from the Metro B Piazza Bologna stop. The owners are dedicated to serving unique wines which can be paired with a full course menu of modern Italian cuisine.
Drinking in Rome: Wine Bars
Thursday, July 26, 2007
