After a some time in Rome, your palette quickly begins to distinguish between the good and the run of the mill restaurants.  I didn’t think it was possible, but you can have some truly uninspiring Italian meals in the capital – especially in August when many local businesses shutter up and head to the beaches.  You have to get off the beaten tourist track.  And while I like a good cacio e pepe, I don’t eat pork which is a key ingredient in the other three staple Roman pasta dishes (Amataciana, Carbonara, and Gricia).  This often limits my options unless seasonal vegetables or seafood are also on the menu.  Thankfully, you can find good local food and variety with a bit of effort.  

My Italian teacher recommended trying local osterias, which were traditionally a place to gather for drinks accompanied by simple local food.  The first Italian osteria dates back to the 14th century and slowly over time the focus of osteria’s shifted towards food.  A working lunch provided an opportunity to try Osteria 44. 

Osteria 44 stands out for its original menu and inspired daily specials.  Arriving between 12:00-12:30 pm usually guarantees good seating at restaurants in Rome as most locals tend to take later lunches.  

For our large group, the servers recommended shared appetizer platters including suppli (fried rice balls stuffed with cheese, tomatoes or meat) and large mounds of burrata (fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese) with tomatoes or prosciutto.  I highly recommend the cacio e pepe suppli (filled with pecorino, rice and black pepper).  

Then came the picture perfect main courses.  I opted for the pumpkin ravioli with fresh calamari in a light chili and garlic sauce.  The pumpkin ravioli was on point and a truly unique combination of flavors with the calamari.  My colleague tried the rabbit special, while the tuna entree was popular with the rest of the group.    

Location: Via Aureliana, 42/44

Phone: 06 42013318