Friccico Ristorante

Tucked away in Rome’s Portuense neighborhood, Friccico Ristorante offers an unpretentious setting for those seeking authentic Roman cooking with a creative edge. This isn’t the kind of place that relies on tourist foot traffic—it’s where locals come when they want a satisfying meal without any fuss. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it ideal for a quiet dinner when you want good food without the spectacle.

The star of the show here is undoubtedly the saltimbocca, though calling it traditional would miss the point entirely. Chef’s version swaps the typical veal for farmyard duck, a choice that brings a slightly more robust texture and edges that crisp up beautifully. Instead of prosciutto, they use lonza—a leaner cured pork loin that adds its own crunch. Fragrant sage appears twice: once draped over the cutlet in classic fashion, and again fried to a crisp as a garnish. But what truly elevates the dish is the sauce, a patient creation made from slow-braising the duck’s internal parts for hours, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s genuinely memorable.

Friccico is perfect for those evenings when you want to eat well without making a production of it. Whether you’re dining solo with a book or sharing a casual meal with a friend, the relaxed Portuense setting and honest cooking make for an easy, satisfying experience. It’s the kind of neighborhood restaurant that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a local secret.

If you find yourself in this corner of Rome, make the detour. The saltimbocca alone is worth the trip, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve experienced a slice of the city that most visitors never see.