L.go Dino Frisullo (known locally as ‘Campo Boario’ or ‘ex-Mattatoio’), Testaccio
Open Tuesday through Friday for dinner only (from 8pm)
Saturday lunch (1pm to 3:30pm) and dinner
Sunday lunch only
Credit cards and reservations accepted Tel. 333 4187870
More info (in Italian) at www.myspace.com/bioristorante
Nestled among the shops of Testaccio’s new and oh-so-hip Città del’ Altra Economia in a restored 19th century slaughterhouse, the ‘bio-ristorante’ serves good healthy organic food with Italian flair – which means it defies what you might expect from a health-food restaurant. This family-friendly establishment brings diners a pitcher of real as they sit down – a nice touch that reminds you of home. And unlike most other restaurants in Rome, has high chairs that the tots actually can’t fall out of.
But the food is the real reason to come here – the always-fresh offerings are light and delicious, often combining ingredients creatively while not forgetting their Italian roots. Pasta and rice dishes are celebratory, and for a great second course, try the Insalata di Bollito (boiled beef salad). Home-made desserts are winners as well, and the best part is that you won’t leave feeling like you’ve just destroyed your stomach (nor will you leave thinking, ‘Ok that was interesting, better go find something to eat for real’).
While the prices here are quite reasonable, the service can be as you might expect from servers with dreadlocks. But in the end, what’s the rush? Relax and enjoy – this is a true Slow Food experience. They’ve got a good selection of organic wine and beer, although the house red is good enough that you don’t have to look any further. After your meal, check out some of the other great shops in the Città del’ Altra Economia, a secluded little piece of fair-trade heaven nestled between Monte Testaccio and the Tiber.