04 Feb A Culinary Discovery near the Pantheon: Hostaria de Pastini Review
Introduction:
My second trip to Rome was a blend of revisiting old favorites and discovering new gems, one of which I’m excited to share in today’s article. Without prior research, our unplanned detour led us to Hostaria de Pastini, replacing our original choice, Cantina e Cucina, due to long queues.
aperitifi to start the meal
Location:
Situated a short stroll from the Pantheon, Hostaria de Pastini defied initial reservations about its proximity to tourist-heavy areas. Our visit, strategically timed, allowed us to savor the ambiance before the crowds descended.
Staff:
In a foreign city, the staff’s exceptional service can elevate an entire dining experience. At Hostaria de Pastini, the staff’s warmth and fluency in our native language added a delightful touch. Their attentiveness and courtesy contributed significantly to our overall satisfaction.
Food:
Simplicity defines the culinary offerings at Hostaria de Pastini, and simplicity here is indeed a virtue. While not claiming the title of the best in Rome, the food is undeniably delightful. If I were to rank the dining experiences in Rome, Cantina e Cucina would secure the top spot, leaving Hostaria de Pastini and Sora Lucia vying for second place. The diverse dishes make direct comparisons challenging, but the generous portions enhance the dining experience.
bruschettes or at least one of them
Portions and Prices:
Portions at Hostaria de Pastini stand out, a welcome departure from some less generous experiences elsewhere. Despite a total bill of 62.50 Eur for 2 types of bruschettes, olio peperoncino pasta, Cacio e pepe pasta, a plate of aperitifi, 2 aperol, and one big natural water, the value becomes evident when considering the location, portion sizes, and food quality. Adjusting the bill by opting for house wine instead of Aperol brings the total to under 50 Eur for a satisfying meal.
can’t have dinner without pasta
Cacio e Pepe Exploration:
My culinary exploration led me to experiment with different dishes while keeping Cacio e Pepe as a constant. Although Cantina e Cucina’s rendition remains my top choice, Hostaria de Pastini’s version stands out, surpassing other attempts in Rome.
Conclusion:
Hostaria de Pastini may not promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it delivers a good meal with ample portions, conveniently close to the Pantheon and other key attractions. If you find yourself in the area, consider giving this charming spot a try for a reliable and satisfying dining experience.