If you’re thinking of a pleasant day trip from Rome, there’s a little spot in Abruzzo worth discovering. Ristorante Assunta, often affectionately known by locals as “Pellicola,” is located in Tempera, a quiet hamlet of L’Aquila surrounded by greenery, about an hour and a half by car from Rome.
It’s a true local institution for those seeking rustic, traditional cuisine off the beaten path, offering a very authentic dining experience and a homey atmosphere reminiscent of Sunday lunches at Grandma’s.
Dining in nature and feeling at home
During the warmer months, you dine outdoors, surrounded by natural ponds fed by spring water, while in winter the indoor space is warmed by a cozy fireplace. The menu is almost entirely dedicated to locally sourced freshwater fish, caught directly from the restaurant’s own tanks; and for those who don’t eat fish, there are also meat main courses.
Must-try dishes includethe appetizer of trout, beans, and bruschetta; spaghetti with trout sauce; and trout served flambé. You can also try fried frogs, and the restaurant offers gluten-free options ( we recommend mentioning this when making your reservation). The prices aren’t high, averaging around 10 euros per dish.
On summer evenings, dinner shows featuring live music are held weekly.
Furthermore, the experience is known for being extremely informal. There’s no formal table service: diners are called when the food is ready, and there’s a historic and tongue-in-cheek “house rule” stating that only the men must get up to fetch the trays of dishes for the entire table.
With its paper tablecloths and down-to-earth service, this isn’t the place for those seeking luxury, but it’s ideal for getting away from the city, enjoying hearty portions, and soaking up the fresh air and nature of Abruzzo at an affordable price.
Where: Via Capo Vera 17, Tempera. To make a reservation: 3501904975. Closed on Tuesdays.
