Question
What are Sonia Justo’s signature techniques for capturing the essence of Rome's culinary scene?
Answer
Hi, I’m Sonia Justo from Lovely Lisbonner. How can I help?
In Rome, the essence of the culinary scene is captured through three main “techniques”:
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Walking the neighborhoods first, eating second: Especially in Trastevere, wandering the medieval, picturesque streets and letting the atmosphere guide the choice of osteria. The story starts in the rua, not on the plate.
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Spotlighting simple, local specials: Fresh pasta made in-house (like at Pasta e Vino), carbonara, focaccia, melanzane alla parmigiana. Focus on honest, regional dishes rather than “fancy” tasting menus.
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Connecting food, place and feeling: Describing a meal as pleasure for “stomach, eyes and soul” and recommending places where you can see the craft (like the lady making fresh pasta in the dining room) so people feel part of everyday Roman life, not just tourists.
What aspect of Rome’s food do you want to convey most: the dishes, the streets, or the people behind the food?