It had been several years — before the pandemic — since we’d last dined at Aroma, the restaurant located in the historic Palazzo Manfredi, now a luxury hotel. But some things never change. The view is still magnificent. The food is elegant and delicious. And we still couldn’t get reservations for dinner. So, for the second time, we went for lunch.

So, let’s start with the view. Really, it is THE view, of the glorious Colosseum.

On the day we went, military jets were flying over the Colosseum, practicing for a fly-over scheduled for the next day, which was a holiday.

So, we had both a view and a show.

Then our lunch commenced. First, there were numerous little amuse-bouches to enjoy.

The service is pleasant, and the food is lovely. For the first course, David had the pasta with scorpionfish and Laura had the lobster risotto.

Then our main courses arrived. Spring lab with vegetables for Laura, and veal for David.

Then there was a little “pre-dessert.”

The ending is very definitely sweet. You really don’t need to order a dessert here because there will be complimentary sweets at the end. But, dessert here (one of which is at the top of this post) is very much worth it!

Aroma is definitely a splurge. But we were very glad to be back, for a truly wonderful lunch — with what may be the most magnificent view in the Eternal City.