From Philadelphia to Rome with Love- A Travel and Dining Guide
Discovering Rome’s Timeless Beauty and Italy’s Culinary Treasures
Italy captivates travelers with 3,000 years of history, iconic landmarks, world-renowned artwork, and, of course, unforgettable food. Italian summers can be like a passionate romance—you keep returning for the beauty, the passion, and perhaps even love itself. That’s why we created a special guide from Philadelphia to Rome with love.
Why Rome is Called the Eternal City
Rome is a city that loves to love. What does that mean? It’s the warm embrace of the Mediterranean sun, the cheerful hotel workers ready to greet you, and the barista who expertly pours your perfect cup of espresso. Walking along ancient cobblestone streets, shopkeepers beckon you inside like sirens, tempting customers with opulent fashion items.
Must-Visit Rome Attractions
During my visit, I explored my favorite Roman landmarks:
- The Pantheon – Ancient architectural marvel
- Piazza Navona – Baroque splendor and street artists
- Trevi Fountain – Iconic fountain and wish-making tradition
I walked from Campo dei Fiori, sampled authentic gelato, and immersed myself in local culture. Restaurant owners enthusiastically shared their menus, asking where I was from. Surprisingly, Philadelphia and Rocky are synonymous worldwide.
Best Cacio e Pepe in Rome: Roma Sparita Restaurant
I strolled through the Roman Forum and along Via Condotti before having dinner at one of my absolute favorite spots on the planet—a hidden gem coined “Restaurant X” by the incomparable Anthony Bourdain. He kept the name secret to prevent tourists from overwhelming what he deemed the best cacio e pepe dish in the world.
Over ten years ago, my family did some sleuthing, and we discovered it’s Roma Sparita. I booked my reservation well in advance to enjoy the only dish that matters: cacio e pepe served in a crispy parmesan bowl. This bucket-list-worthy experience did not disappoint.
Hotel Campo di Fiori: Perfect Rome Accommodation
My stay at Hotel Campo di Fiori was enhanced by valuable tips from the hotel manager, Valentina. The location is perfect—just a few streets from Piazza Navona, surrounded by quaint boutiques and authentic Roman charm.
Abruzzo and Molise: Hidden Italian Regions Worth Exploring
After falling in love with the Eternal City again, I traveled south to the Abruzzo/Molise region. Inspired by Stanley Tucci’s show “Searching for Italy,” I planned a pasta-making class and a special lunch on a trabucco (traditional fishing platform).
Authentic Italian Pasta Making Class
We learned how to make traditional orecchiette and cavatelli pasta. Another day, we relaxed on the fishing wharf, sipping Montepulciano wine while watching waves gently roll across the beautiful blue Adriatic Sea.
Cultural Discoveries in Abruzzo/Molise
A good friend invited me to an outdoor book discussion and art exhibit featuring Nabila DiPilla, a landscape architect and founder of I Montenauti. This organization promotes agricultural and cultural initiatives in the Abruzzo/Molise region, an area rich in alpine and marine resources. Nabila expands regional awareness through landscaping art and education.
After the book talk, I met authors and educators with ties to Ohio and other parts of the U.S., naturally extending invitations to visit Philadelphia. Nabila comes from a renowned background—her father and uncle, Carlo and Luciano DiPilla, were famed naval architects in Rome and internationally. She has the distinct honor of being named after the original ship from the Bond film “Never Say Never Again.” Originally built and named Nabila, it was sold several times but became famous in the movie as The Flying Saucer.
Philadelphia’s Guide to Italian Dolce Vita: Best Italian Restaurants and Cafes
My time in Italy gave me renewed appreciation for the history, cobblestone streets, boutiques, and dining in Philadelphia, our City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. Here’s a curated list of Dolce Vita moments you can experience in Philadelphia.
1. Fiorella – Best Cacio e Pepe in Philadelphia
What to order: Cacio e Pepe Pasta
There really is no comparison. Fiorella, previously Fiorella’s Sausage, is located on South 8th Street in the heart of Philadelphia’s Italian Market. After operating for 125 years, the original family made the difficult decision to sell their historic business. Restaurateur Marc Vetri transformed the iconic name into a modern restaurant while honoring the family’s original sausage recipes.
Cacio e pepe, a classic Roman dish, consists of Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper in a silky sauce (no meat). It’s all about technique, and Fiorella’s serves one of the best versions this side of the Tiber River.
2. Anthony’s Coffee House – Authentic Italian Pastries
What to order: Cappuccino and Maritozzo
Maritozzi are rich Roman pastries that look like open-faced rolls stuffed with whipped cream. For a bolder flavor, try the pistachio version. Anthony’s Coffee House in the Italian Market serves authentic maritozzi, but the real treat is sitting in their outdoor cafe on a Sunday morning discussing the day’s upcoming game.
3. Borromini Ristorante – Seasonal Italian Delicacies
What to order: Stuffed Squash Blossoms
If you’ve never experienced the melt-in-your-mouth bliss of stuffed squash blossoms with ricotta, you’re missing out. This is one of my absolute favorite Italian delicacies. Until recently, I could only find it on menus during trips abroad. The squash blossom is the flower of the zucchini plant, in season during summer months. They’re not easy to find in American markets, so grab them while you can. Lightly fried tempura-style and stuffed with soft, rich cheese—it’s pure heaven.
4. Port Cape May – Fresh Seafood with Ocean Views
What to order: Anything Seafood
Simply named Port, this Cape May restaurant is one of the area’s newest dining destinations, boasting an outdoor waterfront space with spectacular views. Dishes range from crab cakes to red snapper and sea bass tacos. The menu changes seasonally but consistently offers delightful options. Plenty of vegetarian choices are available if you’re not fish-inclined, and you’ll still enjoy the unbeatable waterfront experience.
5. Gran Caffè L’Aquila – Authentic Italian Gelato
What to order: Gelato (any flavor)
We would be remiss not to include gelato on this list—it would be a travesty. I can honestly say I never had true gelato outside of Rome until Gran Caffè L’Aquila opened its doors in 2014. In their quest for authenticity, they employed Italian Gelato Champion Stefano Biasini, elevating gelato to an elevated confection and building a legion of devoted fans. Just don’t call it ice cream.
Plan Your Italian-Inspired Philadelphia Experience
Whether you’re reminiscing about Italian travels or planning your first trip to Rome, Philadelphia offers authentic Italian experiences that rival the Eternal City. From Roman-style pasta to authentic gelato, our city brings la dolce vita to the East Coast.
