Casey T.
Yelp
This is a no nonsense restaurant focusing on Roman cuisine, with a specialty in Quinto Quarto, roughly translated as the "fifth" quarter of the animal (entrails, trippe, etc.). This is typical of the more pedestrian class of Roman cuisine historically and forms an important and creative part of the current foodie oeuvre.
This all sounds more risque than it actually is, so rest at ease: the food is very approachable and comforting. Lots of locals and definitely some foreigners, but they were foodies...
Antipasto buffet: will not disappoint. I'm sure the selection changes daily as it changed during our self-served plating.
PRIMI
Bucatini Amatriciana: a house speciality, this dish is hearty, rich and amazing. Think hollowed out nintendo game controller cords (when they existed) cooked very al dente, with a tomato-based Amatriciana with huge chunks of pancetta/bacon that were super flavorful.
Rigatoni w/ Carciofi, et al: this dish was somewhat disappointing, especially given the rec from our waiter. Possible reason was that the original pasta to be served with the sauce was not available...?....
SECONDI
Coniglio alla Cacciatore: super good version of rabbit on the bone, cooked in the oven (al forno) with olive oil, garlic, and vinegar. This is one of the lighter options and is very well done.
Coda alla Vaccinara: Oxtail braised in celery and tomato broth. Think lamb osso buco or braised beef stew. Very succulent, heavy stuff. I'd order it again, happily.
All in all, an affordable peak into non-glamourous Italian/Roman cuisine. I like this place!
side note: solid wine list.