Trattoria Trecca

Tucked away in Rome’s Ostiense neighborhood, Trattoria Trecca is the kind of place that rewards those willing to venture beyond the tourist trail. About four metro stops from the Colosseum, this bustling trattoria has cultivated a devoted following among locals and in-the-know visitors who understand that sometimes the best meals require a bit of a journey.

What sets Trecca apart is their mastery of quinto quarto—the “fifth quarter” tradition of Roman cooking that transforms humble offal into something extraordinary. Their rigatoni alla pajata is the kind of dish that converts skeptics, featuring milk-fed veal intestines that deliver a richness and depth you didn’t know pasta could achieve. Meanwhile, their bucatini all’amatriciana is so impeccable that diners have been known to pester the kitchen for the recipe.

The dining experience here feels authentically Roman, with a lively atmosphere that’s equally welcoming whether you’re perched solo at the bar or gathered with friends at a table. Summer brings the added pleasure of outdoor seating, perfect for lingering over a bottle of wine as the evening unfolds. The wine selection itself is worth exploring, complementing the robust flavors of the kitchen beautifully.

For anyone serious about experiencing real Roman cuisine beyond the carbonara-centric mainstream, Trattoria Trecca is an essential destination. Yes, it takes a bit of effort to get here, but this is exactly the kind of pasta that makes the trip worthwhile.