La Matriciana Dal 1870

Step into La Matriciana and you’re transported to a Rome that straddles two eras—the grandeur of 1870 when this establishment first opened its doors, and the polished sophistication of mid-century Italian elegance. The atmosphere is decidedly refined yet welcoming, with crisp white tablecloths setting the stage and impeccably dressed waiters gliding between tables. This is the kind of place where tradition isn’t just preserved, it’s celebrated with every detail.

The food here speaks to generations of Roman culinary wisdom. Start with the prosciutto and mozzarella—a seemingly simple pairing that reaches new heights when the ham is carved fresh from the bone and the cheese arrives impossibly creamy from Campania. While the restaurant’s name might tempt you toward the amatriciana, those in the know opt for the silky gricia or, when temperatures drop, a warming bowl of tortellini in brodo. The saltimbocca alla Romana is another standout, executed with the precision that comes only from decades of practice. Order a side of sautéed chicory greens and you’ll understand why Romans take their vegetables as seriously as their pasta.

This is a restaurant that draws a distinctly local crowd—couples on date night, professionals closing deals over dinner, and multi-generational families celebrating together. Its location directly across from Rome’s Opera House makes it an ideal choice for pre-theater dining or a leisurely post-performance meal.

If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Roman tradition in a setting that feels both timeless and alive, La Matriciana delivers exactly that. It’s not chasing trends or reinventing the wheel—it’s simply doing what it’s done brilliantly for over 150 years.