A Rome holiday is a feast for the eyes - world renowned not just for the Vatican, but also countless historic treasures, archaeological sites, sculptures, architecture, fashion, interior design and of course, the quintessential Roman cuisine. I’ve been to Rome several times and actually thought I knew it quite well. This trip puts paid to that notion starting with our hotel, located in the up-and-coming San Lorenzo Quarter, which was new to me.
Soho House specifically selected this neighborhood that’s poised for redevelopment from its current grittiness and within easy reach of the center of Rome. Although near Terminal station it’s a little off the beaten path, populated mainly with students - a burgeoning artist enclave with a bohemian vibe.
The magnificent dome of the St Mary of the Angels and Martyrs church
The Soho House design aesthetic is decidedly mid-century. Low seating, layers of patterned textiles, warm walnut wood, terrazzo flooring, all key elements conveying an elevated level of cozy and cool that’s immediately welcoming and relaxing.
The creamy walls, carpeting and floor to ceiling sheers are the perfect backdrop to the dynamic mix of color, pattern and textiles throughout
A winning juxtaposition of smooth terrazzo flooring meets textured burled wood and that mid-century phone!
Every room has its own terrace - the perfect setting for that morning macchiato or evening aperitivo
As comfortable as the hotel is at some point you have to hit the road, see the sights and sample all the gorgeous food!
Larry, Chris and I are in sync and we’re off…Philippe’s off-camera as our resident photographer
The reason for our trip to Rome was to celebrate Sabir’s birthday - looking very chic in all black strolling with his best mates to lunch
Santo Palato trattoria was a real discovery and the kind of local restaurant you’re hoping for…a trattoria of soulful peasant classic Rome dishes headed by chef Sarah Cicolini, in yet another new neighborhood for me, the Appio-Latino Quarter.
Trippa alla Romana (tripe cooked with tomato and seasoned with pecorino Romano and mint)
Polpetta di coda allal vaccarina, salsa di arachidi e levistico (Oxtail breaded shreaded meatball with lovage and peanut sauce) the restaurant’s most popular dish with good reason - amazing!!
Warm vitello tonnato
The Trattoria Santo Palato team
I found my way to Vio’s, a beautiful store overflowing with elegant and refined table settings, owned by Violante Guerrieri. She’s well known for her extraordinary talent in the ‘Art de la Table’ and her exclusive tableware designs, all of which are made in Italy.
Exquisite ceramic palm tree candle holders I bought for my Florida house from Vio’s Shop
Go all in with Vio’s lifestyle book, Vio’s Cooking
Stay tuned as we travel through Puglia next…