There are places in Rome where time seems to have stood still, not for lack of innovation, but because of the ability to preserve an authenticity that is fading elsewhere. One of these precious corners is found among the stalls of the Mercato Monti, where the “Pippo Tortellino” sign draws Romans and tourists alike.
If you’re looking for the essence of true “Roman spirit,” seasoned with a dash of culinary flair, this is the place for you. In this market, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant and authentic atmosphere. Don’t expect linen tablecloths: here, the experience is direct, tactile, and human. The restaurant’s strength, managed by Filippo Fazi (who continues a family tradition started by his parents nearly thirty years ago in Colli Aniene), lies precisely in that human connection.
The pasta dishes you’ll find
The kindness, constant smile, and passion of those preparing the food shine through in the restaurant’s numerous 5-star reviews. The real magic happens behind the counter. Watching the chefs sauté your order reassures you of the freshness of the ingredients. The menu of the express kitchen, as indicated on Pippo Tortellino’s chalkboard, is a tribute to the classics, but with a few signature twists. For just 9 euros, you can enjoy the staples of Roman cuisine: bigoliall’Amatriciana, alla Carbonara, and tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe.
Those looking for something more unique, for a couple of euros more, can venture into intriguing pairings: fettuccine with pea cream, ginger, and mint (+ pecorino); trofie with pesto, buffalo mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes; ravioli stuffed with ricotta and spinach, served with tomato and a basil emulsion; and even the daring Cacio e Pepe ravioli with papaya cream and Tropea onion.
Rounding out the menu is a section dedicated to crepes, available with ricotta and lemon, ricotta and salmon, or ricotta, radicchio, and walnuts. Many foreign visitors have declared that they’ve eaten the best pasta in all of Rome here, preferring it by far to high-end restaurants, at a cost of about 18 euros for two people—an unbeatable value.
Whether it’s a quick plate of fettuccine or a supply of fresh pasta to take home, you’ll feel as though you’re being guided on a journey of discovery through new flavors. To end on a sweet note, you’ll also find tiramisu.
Where: Via Baccina, 36, 00184 Rome. Open from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., every day except Sunday.
