A stone’s throw from the Parliament building at Montecitorio, down the street from us and across Via del Corso, look for a dark, tiny alley, with a nondescript little sign:
Down the little alley lies an old favorite of ours, Trattoria dal Cavalier Gino. We just call it Gino’s. In front is the board with the handwritten specials:
Assuming you followed our recommendation and have reservations, you’ll get a coveted table in this tiny place, just a few inches from your neighbor. As you can see from the photo at the top of this post, inside it is pure kitsch, but in a good way. You’ll find politicians, locals, expats, and in-the-know tourists inside.
They come here for the friendly service and the simple “comfort food” they serve. I suggest their plentiful antipasto plate as a starter.
After that, I head towards a hearty plate of pasta.
And perhaps a stick-to-your-ribs meat and veg plate, like this one:
It’s nothing fancy. But it’s good, reasonably priced, and they treat people well. Last time I was there, I was asked if I wanted dessert. I said I was totally stuffed but needed just “a bite” of something sweet. A sliver of the most delicious, home made, flaky fruit tarte arrived… just right!
The Spanish Steps Apartment on Via della Mercede 