In the heart of Rome, in the Jewish ghetto, there is a small bakery that attracts the attention of passersby, especially because of the line of people waiting to get in. The reason for this success is Boccione’s ricotta and sour cherry cake. It is not simply a dessert; it is a culinary institution and a symbol of the Jewish-Romanesque pastry tradition, although we loved the chocolate chip variant.
The best ricotta cake in Rome
Don’t expect to go for a small portion of cake. The slice will be nice and big and filled with lots of ricotta and chocolate. Happiness for those who love to eat sweets. The bakery, known as Pasticceria Boccione (or Antico Forno Boccione), is located in the heart of Rome’s old Jewish Ghetto, on Via del Portico d’Ottavia.
The Pastry and its Legend
Unlike classic tarts, Boccione’s is known for its deliberately “burnt” appearance and dark surface. This dark, sturdy crust encloses a sublime filling. The sweetness and creaminess of fresh ricotta meets chocolate-a perfect match!
The origin of the traditional dessert with sour cherries is intertwined with the history of the Ghetto. In the 18th century, following a papal edict, Jews were forbidden to sell sweets containing dairy products. The Jewish bakers’ solution was to create this tart to “hide” the ricotta between two layers of short pastry and underneath a generous layer of dark sour cherry jam.
Practical Information
The Boccione Bakery is a historic and Spartan place that has remained true to its tradition.
Address: Via del Portico d’Ottavia 1, 00186 Rome (Jewish Ghetto).
Hours are as follows:
- Monday-Thursday 07:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Friday 07:30 am – 3:30 pm
- Saturday Closed
- Sunday 07:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Boccione’s Ricotta Cake is a must for anyone visiting Rome, representing not only a treat for the palate but also a piece of the city’s history.