La Matriciana Dal 1870 - Review - Esquilino - Rome - The Infatuation

"La Matriciana is old-school Rome at its finest. It encapsulates both the historic elegance of 1870 (when it opened) and the slick, suit-and-tie vibe of the ’60s. The waiters are as sharply dressed as the white-clothed tables, and the food is just as classic. The prosciutto and mozzarella here are unmatched—ham sliced fresh from the bone and extra-creamy cheese delivered daily from Campania. While the name might suggest ordering the amatriciana, we’d go for the velvety gricia or a steaming bowl of tortellini in brodo when the weather turns cool. The saltimbocca alla Romana is also flawlessly executed and tastes even better when paired with a side of sautéed chicory greens. The crowd is mostly locals: date nights, business dinners, and big family gatherings. And since it’s right across from Rome’s Opera House, it’s the perfect place for before or after the theater." - Annie Replogle