If you look through the window of Piatto Romano, you may see two or three people at a round table, meticulously trimming vegetables like chicory, artichokes, poppy greens, and amaranth. This scene unfolds on any given day between 10 a.m. and midday, with an air of anticipation building for the restaurant's lunch service, which kicks off at 12:45 p.m. The kitchen, small yet bustling, transforms the bright green produce into vibrant dishes that carry the weight of tradition.
Nestled at Via Bodoni 62, Piatto Romano is the brainchild of Francesca D’Alfonsi and her brother Andrea, who took the helm in late 2013. The space, once home to Da Rafaelle, is now a tribute to traditional Roman cuisine, with an emphasis on family recipes. Francesca's father, Augusto D’Alfonsi, initially announced the shift in 2011, suggesting that the new venture would serve familiar dishes infused with rich flavors and a family touch.
Among these cherished recipes is a standout chicken dish bathed in a citrus and oregano sauce, a recipe steeped in history. This dish has been handed down through generations of Roman restaurateurs, each adding their unique flair while respecting its roots. It draws locals and tourists alike, eager to taste a piece of culinary heritage that has graced Roman tables for decades.
The evolution of Piatto Romano reflects not just the personal journey of the D’Alfonsi family but also the broader narrative of Rome's dining culture. When Da Rafaelle closed in 2009, the neighborhood felt the absence of its traditional offerings. Augusto's vision to revive and reimagine the space with Piatto Romano was met with curiosity and excitement. The D’Alfonsi family did not shy away from embracing the past. They instead chose to weave it into the fabric of their new restaurant.
The kitchen’s rhythm is palpable as the clock ticks toward lunchtime. By 12:30 p.m., trays of bright-green boiled vegetables appear, ready to complement the main dishes. The baked salt cod may also grace the tables, bringing more traditional flavors into the mix. Each element is prepared with care, reflecting the dedication the D’Alfonsi family puts into their food.
Francesca recalls her childhood memories in the kitchen, where her family gathered over meals filled with laughter and lively discussions about the day’s business. “I remember the vegetable trolley in the corner,” she said, reflecting on the small details that shape her culinary landscape. The family dynamic remains integral to Piatto Romano, with Francesca and Andrea often seen collaborating in the kitchen, a testament to their shared commitment to quality and tradition.
The chicken dish with citrus and oregano stands out as a favorite. It is a simple yet impactful dish that resonates with diners for its flavors and its story. Each bite offers a connection to the past, evoking memories of Sunday family dinners and gatherings that are central to Italian culture. The dish embodies the essence of Roman cooking, fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a sense of community.
As the restaurant fills with patrons, the atmosphere transforms into a lively space where laughter and conversation mingle with the aroma of freshly cooked food. The D’Alfonsi family's hands-on approach to running the restaurant continues to pay off, attracting those in search of an authentic Roman meal. Locals often find themselves returning, drawn by the familiar experience and the ever-present warmth of family hospitality.
Piatto Romano does more than serve food; it preserves a piece of Rome's culinary history. In every dish, there’s a narrative that unfolds, a narrative of family, tradition, and the unyielding love for good food. The restaurant stands as a reminder of how a simple dish can transcend generations, connecting people through shared experiences and flavors that evoke nostalgia.
As lunchtime draws to a close and the last plates are cleared away, the D’Alfonsi family prepares for the next service, ready to welcome another group eager to share in their family’s rich heritage. The legacy of the chicken in citrus and oregano continues, a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the spirit of Rome itself.
According to The Guardian.
