Angelina

Angelina is one of my favorite Italian restaurants in Rome. It is located in the Testaccio quarter which is one of the most historically important areas of Rome. The Emporium port in the Testaccio was once the main entrance to all the goods arriving into Rome,. It’s one of very few areas that have managed to maintain its historical character though many antique remains which are still visible throughout the district.

The Testaccio is also very famous for its authentic Italian Pizzerias with rude waiters and amazing pizzas. Angelina however is more elegant and chic compared to the rest, which is what makes it stand out. The food quality is very high and the prices are so good considering it’s popularity.

The décor is very elegant with prevalence in large white rooms, and wooden tables. It also has some traditional furniture such as butcher working tables and antique dining tables. The atmosphere is very relaxed and friendly. The restaurant has four main areas, the two indoor rooms, one little outside space on the same level as the indoor rooms, which is usually for smokers, and a very large terrace on the roof which is perfect in warm temperatures. The terrace is my favorite space as is beautifully decorated with an abundance of lemon and olive trees and beautiful plants and it is perfect for a warm evening.

The staff is always very welcoming, attentive and incredibly polite. Even on busy days they will try to seat you, however due to its popularity I would recommend booking just in case.

One of the best parts of Angelina is their large wood fired oven in which they create the most spectacular barbecues and pizzas. The menu is very traditional and really one of a kind. It varies from traditional pasta dishes such as Amatriciana, Gricia Carbonara. As for barbecue meat dishes they have a large variation of steak cuts, burgers, sausages, lamb chops and pork liver. They have a large variety of Fish specialities such as Fried codfish fillet with mayonnaise or Spaghetti with octopus cooked in wine with ricotta cheese, and of course they also have numerous pizzas. The problem with the menu is that it is full of delicious looking meals therefore the decision is tough. In fact I usually avoid looking at the menu and take a traditional pasta dish such as the Gricia (which is basically a carbonara without the egg).

I always have the best experiences when here as I am in a very friendly environment, I am always treated to the best pasta dishes in the world accompanied by delicious wine, and to top it all off the price is medium-ranged compared to the high quality of the restaurant itself. In fact, something I haven’t mentioned above is the ginormous plate the pasta is served in, which really adds a fun and unique touch to the restaurant. It is because of these enormous dishes that the restaurant remained in my heart at first.

Angelina has two locations in Rome, the one at the Testaccio, Via Galvani, 24a which is the one I go to usually, and also on near the Trevi fountain in Via Poli, 27.

For booking or for any other information, take a look at their website:

Website