Rome, aptly named “the Eternal City,” lacks no shortage of things to do and see — a given, considering the several thousands of years of history covered in just one city. Unfortunately for those of us on vacation, our time is anything but eternal. And in perfect American fashion, that means packing in as much as humanly possible on each day’s itinerary – scurrying rapidly from one tourist hotspot in the city to the next. Sadly, the frequently overlooked little gems tucked away in the city’s outskirts remain largely unnoticed by the masses, and it is here where one can find a truly authentic and lasting Italian experience.
A friend of mine referred me to a local acquaintance who had just embarked on a new business venture, which involved winning the hearts of tourists by appealing to our ravenous appetites in the intimate setting of her own home. If you are looking for a truly authentic Italian dining experience, put on your shoes, hop on the Express Bus 90 from Termini, and head to Monte Sacro. Here, you will find La Villa il Gusto.
Monte Sacro, literally “sacred mount,” made ancient Roman history in 494 BC, when disgruntled, lower-class plebeians seceded from the city and set up camp on the little hill outside of the city. It is Rome’s 16th Quarter, and known more formally as the “Citta’ Giardino” or “Garden City.” Modern development, in the style of the Garden City movement, touched the area in the late 1920’s, leading to the construction of the many gorgeous little villas that are now so popular in this quaint corner of the city. Luscious greenery abounds from the elaborate gardens that beam with flowers and color, and everywhere you walk, vivacious citrus scents tickle your nose. This fascinating residential corner is a lively area, perhaps because it is distinctive from an urban point of view. There are still artisans, the shops are small, and people greet each other in the streets, asking for news about sons and daughters. Other random factoid: Enrico Fermi lived in Monte Sacro.
The host of this Dining-in Italian Home Food project is Valeria, a phenomenal cook, whose mouth-watering gastronomy puts Giada de Laurentiis to shame. Physician by day, she concentrates on furthering her intrinsic culinary talents in her spare time. Her delectable cooking is supreme, the portions bountiful, and the ambiance of her home is unparalleled to anything I’ve experienced while dining out in the city. She offers year-round fine dining accommodation, with cozy dinners in the modern-historic contrast of her dining room and with refreshing outdoor summer dining among the magnolia trees.
At Valeria’s house, one can enjoy dishes that belong to the special tradition of various Italian regions, not only because she lived in several places throughout Italy, but also because she is driven by an innate fascination of the culinary delicacies offered by her culture. This is evident through every morsel of the food she delicately serves on your plate, set to be enjoyed in one of the most beautiful settings in Rome.
Valeria has opened her home to guests from the public. More information can be found on her website at http://lavillaeilgusto.it/en/?siteentrypreview=true.
