You know when you get that sudden craving for real cuisine, the one that makes you grab the car and run for the Castelli Romani? If you’re looking for the ultimate carbonara, the one that makes you close your eyes at the first bite, there’s an address in Ariccia that you absolutely must mark in your diary.
It is not the usual tourist restaurant, but a piece of history that beats in the heart of the city of porchetta. Here, amidst the scent of guanciale (pork cheek) and human warmth, lies a secret that almost won Alessandro Borghese’s crown.
Because everyone in Rome is talking about this Fraschetta’s carbonara (and it’s not just for TV)
If you hang out on social media or follow food trends in the capital, you will have heard of La Fraschetta de Sora Ines. But what makes their carbonara so special that it is called “mouth-watering”? The secret is not just in the pecorino romano DOP or the crispy guanciale, but in the pasta.
Unlike many other places, here the carbonara is paired with homemade strozzapreti. This choice gives the dish a rustic, porous texture that captures the egg in a thick, velvety cream, creating a balance of flavors that is pure poetry for the palate.
It is no coincidence that it has become the restaurant’s signature dish, capable of attracting foodies from every corner of the province.
The first fraschetta born in Ariccia: Sora Ines and the challenge to “4 Restaurants”
The history of this fraschetta is rooted in the past, when Nonna Ines opened what is now considered the first historic fraschetta in Ariccia. Romina, the current owner, learned everything from her except how to cook (as she likes to joke herself, however, calling herself a “good fork”).
Today she carries on a family tradition that has lasted for generations, offering a carbonara like few found around now.
The restaurant made national headlines during an episode of “4 Restaurants” with Alessandro Borghese a few years ago. Romina and her sister Sara came close to winning by just one point, but they won over the audience with their authenticity and the quality of the raw materials.
Entering Sora Ines means plunging into a convivial atmosphere of checked tablecloths, vintage objects and the cheerfulness of Roman stornellos sung by Enzo Der Tufello.
From “gargantuan” chopping boards to porchetta: a menu that never disappoints
But man does not live by carbonara alone. If you decide to drop in at Ariccia Bassa, be prepared for generous portions that challenge even the most robust appetite.
As soon as you enter, you’ll be enraptured by the charcuterie counter at the entrance, a riot of flavors that anticipates what’s coming to the table. What’s next?
- Endless appetizers: platters full of cheeses, charcuterie and typical delicacies.
- The Regina Porchetta: crispy outside and tender inside, an absolute must in Ariccia.
- Traditional pasta dishes: in addition to carbonara, gricia and cacio e pepe are to die for.
- Arrosticini e Griglia: selected meat for those who don’t want to give up the second course.
- House Tiramisu: sweet, creamy and perfect to end on a high note.
How to get to Sora Ines and experience the Castelli verace
If you are among the Romans (or tourists) who love to discover “no-frills” places where only substance counts, Sora Ines is your destination.
The ambiance is cozy and rustic, perfect for an evening with friends or a Sunday lunch. Keep in mind, however, that the place is small and in high demand: a line outside is very likely, so book early.
Useful info for your next lunch in Ariccia:
Address: Via Borgo S. Rocco, 29, 00040 Ariccia RM.
Area: Ariccia Bassa, easily accessible from the Capital.