Checchino Dal 1887

Tucked away in the heart of Testaccio, one of Rome’s most authentic neighborhoods, Checchino Dal 1887 has been serving traditional Roman cuisine for well over a century. This isn’t a trendy newcomer trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s a genuine institution that has perfected the art of quinto quarto, the nose-to-tail approach that defines Roman culinary tradition. Beneath the restaurant lies a remarkable wine cellar carved into the ancient Monte Testaccio, adding an extra layer of history to your dining experience.

The star of the show here is undoubtedly the pajata, a dish that challenges diners while rewarding the adventurous with extraordinary depth of flavor. The kitchen slow-cooks this specialty for hours, allowing the veal to develop an almost ricotta-like texture within its natural casing. When served over mezze maniche pasta in their signature tomato and pecorino sauce, each bite delivers a bold, gamey richness that melts seamlessly into the bright, tangy sauce. For those who want to try pajata in its purest form, the grilled version dressed simply with lemon showcases the ingredient’s remarkable character.

Dining at Checchino is about more than just the food—it’s about stepping into a slice of Roman history where outdoor seating lets you soak in the Testaccio atmosphere while sipping exceptional wines selected from their extensive underground collection. This is the kind of place where generations of families have celebrated special occasions and where serious food lovers make pilgrimages to experience cooking that hasn’t compromised for modern trends.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan of traditional Roman cuisine or simply curious about dishes that have stood the test of time, Checchino Dal 1887 delivers an experience that feels both timeless and essential. Come hungry, come curious, and be prepared to discover why some recipes are best left exactly as they’ve always been.