Catalan cream is a legendary dessert whose origin is linked to an anecdote: it is said that a bishop, in an attempt to improve an overly liquid flan, added caramelized sugar, tasting it hot, exclaimed “crema, crema!” This dessert has a long history in Catalan gastronomy, being mentioned in the medieval Sent Soví cookbook, dating back more than 700 years.
Like many culinary traditions, Catalan crema is not a totally original invention but part of a gastronomic cultural exchange. It is similar to the French crème brûlée but differs in its use of cornstarch instead of cream as a thickener. Creme Catalana is characterized by a soft, sweet texture topped with a crunchy crust of caramelized sugar. Some people rave about it… Let’s look at 3 places to eat it in Rome.
There are several restaurants in Rome where you can enjoy delicious crema catalana. Here are some recommended options:
Strada Romana Restaurant
This is a restaurant located in Rome, at Via Vicenza 19, in the Esquilino district, near Termini station. It offers traditional Roman cuisine with a modern twist, in a cozy and casual atmosphere. Specializing in typical Roman dishes such as tonnarelli cacio e pepe, spaghetti alla carbonara, strozzapreti alla gricia and stringozzi all’amatriciana, it also offers traditional and non-traditional desserts such as crema alla catalana.
El duende
The Crema Catalana at El Duende, a Spanish restaurant in Rome, is one of the restaurant’s most popular desserts. Prepared in the Iberian tradition, this custard is flavored with lemon and cinnamon and features a crunchy, irresistible caramelized sugar crust. It is often described as “unforgettable” by customers for its quality and authentic taste.
Casa Loca
CasaLoca is a Spanish restaurant located at Corso di Francia 207 and opened in 2023 by star chef Riccardo Di Giacinto together with Ramona Anello. The restaurant is inspired by the atmosphere of Ibiza and the Balearic Islands, offering an authentic and engaging dining experience. The ambiance is cozy and relaxed, with a design reminiscent of nature and Mediterranean warmth.
Desserts include the Lavender Crema Catalana, a refined take on the traditional Spanish dessert. This dessert combines classic custard flavored with lemon and cinnamon with a delicate lavender scent, which adds a floral and sophisticated note. The caramelized sugar crust gives the characteristic crunch, making it a must-have dessert for lovers of Spanish cuisine.