Osteria da Mario In Roma

20/05/2026: Historic place, attentive and kind service, all very good food but I'm still looking for the perfect carbonara.

18/05/2026: Visiting La Campana isn't just about dining; it's about stepping into history. As the oldest restaurant in Rome, this restaurant preserves the capital's gastronomic tradition with a devotion and consistency that is evident in every detail, from the warm welcome to the classic, exquisitely retro atmosphere. The setting is elegant yet unpretentious, with walls adorned with paintings and historic photos that recount the centuries of the restaurant's history and the footsteps of the famous guests who have graced its walls. The menu is a triumph of traditional Roman cuisine, crafted with the highest-quality ingredients and with absolute respect for recipes passed down through generations. The culinary experience begins masterfully with artichokes, where you can appreciate the perfect transition between the crispiness of the artichoke alla giudia, fried to perfection and light, and the aromatic softness of the artichoke alla romana, expertly cooked with mint and garlic. Among the first courses, the expertly creamed tonnarelli cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper) stands out, striking with its perfect balance between the creaminess of pecorino romano and the pungent note of toasted black pepper. For those seeking a more robust flavor, the rigatoni all'amatriciana offers impeccably crispy guanciale and a rich, enveloping tomato sauce, with the pasta served strictly al dente. The traditional second courses are equally impressive, starting with the coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew), perhaps the restaurant's signature dish. The meat falls off the bone with just the pressure of a fork and is immersed in a thick, deep sauce, characterized by a subtle hint of cocoa that enhances its complexity. Equally superb is the roast lamb with potatoes, tender and fragrant with herbs, a classic executed to perfection. For a sweet finish, their famous warm apple tart accompanied by gelato is a true delight, but the tiramisu, creamy and with a balanced flavor, also fully meets expectations. Service is another of the establishment's great strengths. The longtime waiters, dressed in classic livery, move around the dining room with an air of old-world professionalism. They are always ready to recommend the daily specials with genuine courtesy and a lack of cold formality, making guests feel welcome. In short, La Campana shuns the temptations of modern culinary trends and remains an essential destination for anyone wishing to discover the true essence of Roman cuisine in the heart of the city.