Idylio by Apreda

We had a fantastic Christmas eve at Idylio. The menu was very rich, exquisite, with local inspirations and a French twist. The highlight was the risotto - but really, all dishes were fantastic.

It’s mainly seafood fusion, good and interesting food, great wine, great service. The chef lived in Japan and India and it shows in his taste.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Idylio by Apreda We had an outstanding lunch at Idylio by Apreda, a Michelin 1-star restaurant, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable fine dining experiences we’ve had. We made a lunch reservation and noted that we would be accompanied by our 18-month-old baby. The staff kindly gave us a comfortable 4-seat sofa table, which made the whole experience far more relaxed. We ordered the Iconic Signature 4-course menu with wine pairing, and also requested a simple tomato pasta for the baby, which was prepared without hesitation. Overall, the lunch exceeded what one could reasonably expect from a 1-star Michelin restaurant. The cuisine was Italian at its core but infused with inspirations from the chef’s Asian experiences, making it both familiar and intriguing. The wine pairing was simply phenomenal—absolutely essential. In particular, the delicately tinted white wine with red-wine notes, paired with the fish main, felt like a perfect reflection of the chef’s philosophy. Dessert, the Sweet Buffalo Mozzarella, paired with dessert wine, closed the meal on a spectacular note. I would wholeheartedly recommend Idylio to anyone looking for a rich fine dining experience in Rome, and I would gladly return. More Detailed Feedback (meant as constructive suggestions, not complaints) This section is written with sincerity to help this excellent restaurant grow even further. Please note: none of these points are meant as criticism or dissatisfaction—only as genuine improvement suggestions. 1. Service The staff were kind, attentive, and professional, providing explanations that made the dishes more enjoyable. They clearly wanted us to feel welcome. At times, however, when clearing crumbs, I sensed a slight awkwardness—as if they were being “too polite” rather than simply confident in their own excellence. My suggestion: you are already top-level staff in a top-level restaurant. Serve with more pride and confidence—you fully deserve it. 2. Philosophy of the Cuisine Powders appeared three times: in a pizza-like amuse bouche, in the cheese sauce served with bread, and finally in the grilled onion with the fish. It made me wonder if “powder accents” were part of the restaurant’s identity. However, despite appearing three times, the impact never felt particularly strong, and I even wondered if the powder style functioned almost like a MacGuffin. The beef carpaccio was flavorful but texturally inconsistent—some bites were slightly chewy, which contrasted noticeably with the smooth amberjack served alongside. It would be great if the texture could be more consistently refined. The white pasta with caviar formed an excellent layered transition from the carpaccio to the fish course, carrying forward the briny sea notes. It paired beautifully with the wine. Still, two thoughts crossed my mind: Without wine, the seasoning might have felt slightly too strong. As a standalone dish, it didn’t deliver the overwhelming “wow moment” that some Michelin 3-star pasta dishes can, where even a non-main course can feel like the best pasta of your life. Here, the pasta seemed to serve more as a structural bridge rather than as a self-contained highlight. The monkfish main, however, was truly extraordinary. My wife, who once ran a restaurant herself, said this is the kind of dish that separates a good cook from a true chef. I completely agreed. The onion was deliberately grilled less intensely, avoiding heavy caramelization, and the result was a brilliant harmony with the fish. This was the reason one comes to a restaurant like Idylio. 3. Wine Pairing The wine pairing was exceptional—so exceptional that it made me wonder whether some dishes could shine equally without it. If the chef’s vision is for the food and wine to be inseparable, then I would suggest recommending the pairing even more strongly. For example, the white pasta reached its full potential only with the wine; without it, the experience would have been cut in half. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience it.

We had an incredible experience here. The dishes are very creative and full of flavor, with beautiful presentation. The staff not only provided impeccable service but also took the time to explain each dish in detail. I’d recommend anyone to eat here.

It wa an unforgettable experience for my 40th birthday. This 1 Michelin star restaurant delivered excellence on every level. Each dish was a masterpiece — bold, unusual combinations executed with precision and presented like art. Every detail was thoughtful, from the plating to the pacing. The service was attentive without being intrusive, making the evening feel both elegant and personal. A perfect blend of creativity, flavor, and perfection. Truly memorable.

After many failed Michelin restaurant attempts, we were really glad that this restaurant made us restored our hope for the fine dining scene in Rome. From the creativity to the taste of the dishes, we were more than satisfied. Wine pairing was on point, and the service was impeccable. If you’re looking to try out contemporary Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist, look no further.

Excellent time, food and service. My partner and I visited Rome and wanted to try a Michelin Star restaurant, we had never been to one before so we wanted to experience it, and we were blown away. The service was impeccable. We opted for the seasonal 7-course meal with the wine pairing. Every course and wine came to us and was explained in detail. After ordering we got our appetizers 10-15 minutes later. We got 2 appetizers before our “7-courses” started, and there was also a dessert that was served not as part of our “7-courses”. The portions were small but as to be expected at a fine dining establishment. We both left feeling very satisfied. There was a course I wasn’t the biggest fan of as I do not like the taste of fish. There was a pasta dish that was cooked in fish-oil that I could barley eat because of the fish taste. Other than that I enjoyed all of the courses and would highly recommend. We paid 170€ each and added another 80€ for the wine pairing. If you’re looking to experience a fine dining restaurant this is a great place to go!

A delightful lunch we had here. Located adjacent to the Pantheon hotel, and by extension the actual Pantheon, the restaurant is a small-ish space but looks very refined. The 'iconic signature' menu requires everyone to choose the same dishes. Perhaps it makes the chef's job easier, but other tables are ordering food too, so it's not like you get to only make one thing all day. Anyway, because of that we chose 'flying lunch' which is basically a la carte, 70eur for 3 courses and 20 extra for dessert (a bit pricey come to think of it) The chef's Asian influence is noticeable, the tempura batter is nice and thin. But they are also good with the basics, risotto and pasta flavored perfectly, and consistency good not runny. All in all, good experience, not too expensive for Michelin level meal.

One of my favorite restaurants from my 2022 trip to Rome. When I was a kid being forced to eat chicken thighs for every meal, I always imagined becoming very rich and eating only the most tender, "filet" part of the chicken thigh. Incredibly, at Idylio by Apreda, they deconstruct the chicken such that you can eat the thigh filet, as well as many other parts. This restaurant blends contemporary Asian flavors with Italian and is a worthy departure from what otherwise would be a lot of pasta.

My husband & I traveled to Rome and wanted to go to a Michelin star restaurant and this has been our favorite so far. The service was spectacular, we loved the vibes, and we enjoyed every single dish (which isn't common for us with these experiences). We chose the Iconic signature dinner and did most of what the server recommended with some adjustments. They also brought out several surprise dishes, which were all delightful! At the end of our meal the chef came out to greet each table individually which was a nice touch. Would absolutely recommend this place.

I'm a lover of all food, both luxury experiences like Idylio and cheap eats like the pasta shops all around Rome. Unfortunately Idylio was a bit of a mixed bag for us. My expectations coming in were high of course, given that this was a Michelin restaurant and that I had spent the past 3 days exploring Rome and enjoying the amazing, extremely inexpensive food. I was excited to see what a fine dining experience would be like. We had the "Iconic Signature" menu for €120 along with a 3-wine flight each for €40. I was very happy with the number of courses. Beyond the 6 courses listed on the menu, there were several complimentary bites in the amuse bouche, bread, palette cleanser, and dessert. We were stuffed when we left the restaurant. Our favorite courses were the breaded sea scallops and the ravioli in tuna broth. The sea scallop was tender and sweet on the inside while the panko breading was nice as crisp. The ravioli was perfectly cooked and the broth it was served in was delicious. I'd also like to give a special shoutout to the sommelier, who picked an excellent selection of wines for us, the highlight of which was a Fifty/Fifty (white blend with half white grape and half red grape without the skin). Beyond those two dishes and wine, the rest failed to significantly impress us and some dishes were downright unappetizing. The Cacio e Pepe Risotto was way too heavy, like a cheese sauce porridge, with mostly cheese. The rich, heavy Cacio sauce makes sense for a long noodles (lower surface area to volume) but when mixed with rice in a risotto it was way too overpowering. The "Two Cultures" roast chicken was a whole roast chicken glazed in a teriyaki sauce carved tableside. The carving was fun to watch, but I really expected more than what basically amounted to an "elevated" teriyaki chicken for the main course of a €120 meal. The service was smooth and efficient. In most cases it was just fine, but there were some instances where the servers were much too quick in clearing our table. We absolutely loved the seasoned whipped butter served with their bread course, but they quickly cleared it away to make room for the next course before we even had time to stop them. A simple "May I?" would have done wonders in several similar situations. I think next time I visit Rome (or elsewhere in Italy) I'll stick with the €10 spots. Those have never disappointed me!

Frankly, at €160 per head plus extras this place falls extremely short. My primary grievance is that the service is glacially slow and disappointing. We did not see our first course until 85 minutes after we sat down. I dined with a young person so this was abusive. In contrast, tables seated after us were 2 courses in before we got our first one. Unexplainable! We pointed out the slow service. They couldn't care less. Wine service was about 75% correct. Not ideal in a Michelin 1 Star. The food was very hit or miss. We had 3 dishes that simply were poor and bordering on inedible. That is half the menu! Again they shrugged at our feedback. Lastly, the portion size is troubling. For example, 5 pieces of macaroni or a spoonful of angel hair. See pictures. I suspect they live off the Michelin star and focus on tourists who they know will never return. A terrible way to spend 3.5 hours and $800 in Rome. Avoid at all costs!

tldr : phenomenal experience with sharp nuanced flavors Wonderful dinner experience at idylio. We did the signature tasting menu with highlights being the scallop with broth, risotto, and buffalo mozzarella desert. The interior is beautiful and immaculately decorated harkening to a scene out of Skyfall. I honestly felt like a Bond villain in Macau. Service was attentive without being overbearing. Each dish was full of complexity and nuance allowing individual ingredients to sing while still creating harmony. Would come back again!

The sensations of Italian dishes blended with a touch of Asian flavors is exceptional. Chef Francesco has taken his life experience and brought them to life in his restaurant. Every dish had familiar flavors with a twist that worked well throughout the meal. Exceptional service and an extensive wine list complement the meal. Fine dining in Rome! Bellissimo.

We had our Anniversary dinner here, and it was everything we hoped it could be. It was sparsely populated when we came (shortly before Christmas 2021), but due to Omicron, crowds are light everywhere in Rome these days. Regardless, they sat us at a beautiful table and service was excellent. The sommelier was friendly and helpful - educational and willing to correct me, but still very interested in making sure I was happy with my selection. I was! As a note, I loved both Risotto and the chicken - yes the risotto is strong, but that's how it's supposed to taste.

Our tasting menu was delicious and creative but still distinctive as food. (The other Michelin star restaurant in Rome with a tasting menu and a view missed its target as the emphasis was not on food but precious presentation including a special "fork." You may skip that experience as it does not come close to the full experience you will find at Idylio.) The wait staff and sommelier were very professional and friendly...they enjoy their jobs obviously. You will have a wonderful meal in a lovely setting with fine flavors and value for a Michelin star restaurant. Wish the chef would decide to open a similar restaurant in Northern California. He would quickly be enriched with compliments and wealth.

Amazing experience. One of the best Michelin stars I've been too. Service from Anna was excellent and food was amazing . Mixture of Italian, Indian and Japanese kitchen .

Staff is nice. Food is quite expensive at lunch. Small wine pours but quality is good. Not many people on Thursday afternoon. Overall I'd save your money and go to Divinity for dinner instead.

It was good though honestly felt like they were trying to be fancier than was necessary, especially with some of the more interesting plate choices. Service was top notch and they gave great consideration to my wife's pregnancy in regards to the food we ordered. Cod mousse, even at a Michelin star restaurant, still takes some getting used to.

Our experience at Idylio was mixed. The service was excellent, the ambience was lovely, and some of the dishes on the tasting menu and an unexpected little amuse bouche were both fun and tasty. But, overall the food was disappointing. Most of the meal was simply much too oversalted. The duck was tough and not particularly flavorful. At this price point and with its Michelin star I expected the food to be MUCH better than it was.

My family eats high and low - as long as it's tasty. This Marriott Autograph collection hotel is now home to Francesco Apreda, a world traveled chef who brings his interpretations to The Pantheon Hotel in Rome around the corner from its namesake, the magnificent Pantheon of Rome. The tasting menu is at once iconoclastic and respectful. One can also order a la carte from the tasting menu. Examples from tonight's tasting menu: Plankton gelee in the best rich umami vegetable broth I have tasted with bits of toothsome vegetables. Black cod sous vide is accompanied by a fish knife that may just be high camp b/c the sous vide fish is rich, velvety and can be eaten with a spoon--it's skin transformed into a buttery rich cloak. The portions are perfectly portioned -- I only ever want a few bites and I am on to the next dish. Idylio does that very well. My son loved the pigeon breast -- I passed on that - just have never been much for the bird. The staff are delightful, efficient, swift, attentive, etc. the wine accompaniments were spot on calls by Alessandro. A great place to experience experimental cuisine in Rome - a city that has absorbed the cultures of so many of the world's great and most influential cultures and here it is that this open-minded, expertly trained Chef , who is pulling all the worlds together with his

For the price this place leaves a lot to be desired. The menu was honestly just not the most creative or interesting and didn't come through in the ways I expected out of a Michelin star. The service was awful, the waitstaff stood over us the whole meal and watched us eat, and were overly quick to clear the table. The room is a little over the top and the music was absolutely terrible, jazz covers of creep and enter sandman??? Super off putting. I've had 10x better meals with better dining room vibes at Michelin guide restaurants for half the price, wouldn't recommend coming here honestly.

A must go if you are in Rome! The staffs are nice and the food is Amazing!!! The chef came out and talk to us many times, it was a nice personal touch. The food is definitely unforgettable!