Il Pagliaccio

"Hidden along the cobbled Via dei Banchi Vecchi, you will find Il Pagliaccio, an experience that rewrites the rules of Roman fine dining. Step through the unassuming entrance, and you’ll find yourself in a sleek, intimate dining room where every detail, from the navy walls to the elegant lighting, whispers understated luxury. At the helm is Chef Anthony Genovese, a culinary nomad who channels his French-Italian heritage and global adventures into dishes that feel like miniature works of art. The menu? A globe-trotting masterpiece. One moment you’re savoring delicate Chinese noodles in yellow tomato broth with razor clams, the next you’re marveling at lamb paired with caviar and sea urchin—a pairing so bold it feels like a dare. And yet, it works. Even the simpler creations—like shrimp with agretti and coconut—are layered with unexpected flavors and textures, each bite a revelation. This is food that asks for your full attention and rewards you for giving it. The wine list is a connoisseur’s dream, expertly curated to elevate every dish without stealing the spotlight. Service? Impeccable but refreshingly unpretentious. They know you’re here for the food, and they let it shine. With tasting menus ranging from four to ten courses (yes, vegetarians are beautifully accommodated), Il Pagliaccio offers a culinary journey that’s as daring as it is refined. At €200–€300 per person, it’s an indulgence—but one that lingers long after the last bite. Rome may be a city steeped in tradition, but Il Pagliaccio is proof that the Eternal City knows how to innovate. For anyone serious about food, this is a meal you simply can’t afford to miss."

"Cuisine: Contemporary Italian with Asian influences. A two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Il Pagliaccio offers a refined and inventive dining experience, blending Italian and Asian influences under the guidance of Chef Anthony Genovese. Must-Try Dish: The tasting menu showcases the chef’s creativity and skill. Tip: Ideal for foodies looking for a sophisticated and innovative dining experience in Rome."

"A two-Michelin-star restaurant, Il Pagliaccio is known for its fusion of international cuisines, with a strong influence from Asia. Chef Anthony Genovese offers both tasting menus and plant-based options in a sophisticated, intimate setting."