Osteria Da Fortunata

Nestled in the heart of Rome’s historic Campo de’ Fiori neighborhood, Osteria Da Fortunata has been serving pasta since 1921. The restaurant has become something of a local landmark, instantly recognizable by the crowds gathering outside and the nonnas rolling fresh pasta right in the front window—a spectacle that draws in passersby like moths to a flame.

The draw here is undeniably the handmade pasta, crafted before your eyes using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The menu features Roman classics like cacio e pepe and carbonara, with the emphasis firmly on simplicity and freshness. However, execution can be uneven—while some dishes hit the mark, others fall short of expectations, particularly when it comes to sauce consistency.

The dining experience at Osteria Da Fortunata is very much a tourist affair. Expect long waits during peak hours and service that can feel rushed or inattentive when things get busy. The atmosphere is lively and casual, with the kitchen theater providing constant entertainment, but don’t come expecting a refined dining experience.

If you’re wandering through Rome and want to watch skilled hands work fresh pasta dough, Osteria Da Fortunata delivers on that front. Just manage your expectations accordingly—the show in the window might be more memorable than what ends up on your plate. For a more consistent Roman pasta experience, you might consider exploring some of the neighborhood’s lesser-known trattorias instead.