Trattoria Pennestri

Tucked away in Rome’s Ostiense neighborhood, Trattoria Pennestri offers the kind of candlelit atmosphere that makes you want to linger over every course. Rustic wooden tables adorned with fresh flowers create an intimate setting, while oil paintings grace the cream and burgundy walls. It’s the sort of place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to savor both the company and the cuisine.

The menu strikes a beautiful balance between Roman tradition and culinary adventure. You’ll find all the classics done right—silky carbonara, perfectly peppery cacio e pepe, and tangy amatriciana—alongside dishes that venture beyond the usual Roman repertoire. The pici all’aglione brings a taste of Tuscany, while the seared duck breast with seasonal accompaniments offers something entirely unexpected in this city of eternal pasta.

Whatever you order, save room for dessert. The chocolate mousse here has earned a reputation as one of Rome’s finest, served with an unconventional trio of crispy pane carasau, fragrant rosemary, and flaky sea salt. The wine list may be compact, but it’s thoughtfully curated with standout bottles from small Italian producers worth discovering.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or meeting someone special for the first time, Trattoria Pennestri delivers that quintessential Roman dining experience with enough surprises to keep things interesting. The outdoor seating makes it equally appealing for a leisurely lunch in the warm Italian sun.