Derwandi’s Lebanese Gastronomy

Derwandi is a Lebanese restaurant nestled in the heart of the city – the Corniche. It harmoniously blends contemporary decor with a calming atmosphere, featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that double as doors, providing a spacious dining experience both indoors and outdoors.

Their meticulously curated menu is a feast for the eyes, offering a vast array of choices with enticing pictures to match. Whether you crave breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Derwandi has you covered.

The servers epitomize hospitality, greeting us with smiles and friendliness, further enhancing our dining experience. With their commitment to good quality food, excellent service, and delicious flavors, I am eager to return and explore more of what Derwandi has to offer.

Lebanese flat bread with Zaatar

The flatbread was warm, and chewy with a crisp crust, offering earthy, nutty, and subtle citrus undertones.

Lentil soup

The Lentil soup was wonderfully rich, warming, and absolutely delicious!

Fattoush
(Assorted vegetable salad, topped with crispy bread and mixed with special Derwandi dressing)

The salad was bright and refreshing, with a delightful acidity, complemented by the lovely crunch of the pita chips.

Kharouf Mehchi
(Oriental rice with slow-cooked lamb shanks and special oriental sauce with yogurt and mixed nuts)

The rice is aromatic and nutty, perfectly complementing the tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb meat.

Shish Taouk
(2 skewers of marinated cubed chicken breast. served with grilled onions & tomato, and garlic dip)

The chicken was tender and juicy, and the garlic dip infused an extra punch of boldness to the flavor.

Ladyfish
(deep-fried ladyfish served with fried bread and tahini sauce)

The succulent ladyfish offers a mild flavor and relatively light texture, The crispy batter adds to the enjoyment, while a touch of lemon enhances the overall flavor.

Knefetna
(Lebanese fine cheese – kunafa topped with sugar syrup and crushed pistachio)

This dessert was the highlight for me. The Knefetna had a delicate crunch, and smooth creaminess with a subtle hint of rose. The sugar syrup was served separately, allowing us to adjust the sweetness according to our preferences

Derwandi

Website: https://www.derwandi.ae/
Telephone: +971588539633
Opening hours:

Sunday	8 am–1 am
Monday	8 am–12:30 am
Tuesday	8 am–12:30 am
Wednesday	8 am–12:30 am
Thursday	8 am–12:30 am
Friday	8 am–1 am
Saturday	8 am–1 am

Address: Al Ahkam St – Corniche Rd – next to Radisson Blu Hotel – Al Bateen – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

Scoops of Rome

Gelateria Del Teatro

Gelateria Del Teatro is a quaint gelateria located just before Ponte Garibaldi, right before crossing over to Trastevere. The service was a bit lacking, as the lady behind the counter appeared rather unfriendly and distant. However, there are two benches outside the shop where you can sit and enjoy your gelato.

I decided to try the pistachio and ricotta cheese, as well as the almond and fig flavors. Unfortunately, I found the flavors to be rather mild compared to what I’ve experienced elsewhere, and the texture was somewhat hard and brittle.

Fatamorgana (Trastevere)

This gelato chain offers options tailored to various dietary restrictions like dairy, gluten, nuts, sugar, and eggs, with clear labeling for each. Their flavor range is extensive, featuring intriguing combinations like pineapple & ginger, avocado, lime & wine.

On my visit, I tried the Basil, walnuts & honey, and rose petals, violet flowers & Sorrento walnuts flavors. Each flavor boasted a unique yet delicate profile, showcasing natural ingredients and a creamy texture.

Overall, it’s an excellent spot for those seeking healthier gelato choices.

The Gelatist

In contrast to my previous experiences at gelato shops where I would order first and then pay, I discovered that this particular establishment operated on a pay-first basis. Unfortunately, none of the servers informed me of this until it was my turn, forcing me to return to the back of the line.
Despite the need for better communication regarding the service, the gelato itself was exceptional! Out of the gelatos I’ve tasted in Rome, this was my favorite. We indulged in hazelnut with milk chocolate, hazelnut with dark chocolate, and mango with cheesecake and strawberry.

The gelato was dense, creamy, and impeccably smooth, with flavors that were perfectly balanced in sweetness. Each flavor was distinct, delivering pure bliss with every bite.

Gelateria del Viale

A charming little family-run gelateria located in Trastevere. The woman serving us was warm and hospitable. We tasted the mango, chocolate, and pistachio gelato. Since it was my last day in Italy, I was eager to enjoy one final, delicious gelato. Unfortunately, the flavors were somewhat muted and the texture wasn’t as smooth as I’d hoped.

Gelateria del Teatro (Lungotevere branch)

Website: http://www.gelateriadelteatro.it/
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 12:00 p.m. – 21:00 p.m.
Address: Lungotevere dei Vallati, 25, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Fatamorgana (Trastevere branch)

Website: https://www.gelateriafatamorgana.com/web/index.php
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 12:30 p.m. –22:30 p.m.
Address: Via Roma Libera, 11, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

The Gelatist(Via del Corso, 293)

Website: https://www.thegelatist.it/
Opening hours:

Sunday	9 am–1 am
Monday	9 am–12 am
Tuesday	9 am–12 am
Wednesday	9 am–12 am
Thursday	9 am–12 am
Friday	9 am–1 am
Saturday	9 am–1 am

Address: Via del Corso, 293, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Gelateria del Viale

Opening hours:

Tuesday	Closed
Wednesday	12–7 pm
Thursday	12–8 pm
Friday	12–8 pm
Saturday	12–8 pm
Sunday	12–8 pm
Monday	12–7 pm

Address: Piazza Giuseppe Gioachino Belli, 9F, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Bar Gianicolo – A Local Gem

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Bar Gianicolo is a local and cozy neighborhood bar with an authentic charm, located in Janiculum hill. There is an outdoor seating with view of Porta San Pancrazio. It’s not a very large establishment but a great spot to get a bite away from tourists. They have a good selection of drinks and distinctive sandwiches, some of which were entirely new to me, such as Tramezzini and paninis. Upon spotting the mini sandwiches in the display case, excitement bubbled within me, and I couldn’t wait to savor them.

The little sandwiches were adorable. Each sandwich, warm and bursting with various fillings, offered a satisfying and flavorful bite.

This is definitely a local gem!

Bar Gianicolo

Telephone: +39065806275
Opening hours:

Sunday	6 am–11:30 pm
Monday	Closed
Tuesday	6 am–11:30 pm
Wednesday	6 am–11:30 pm
Thursday	6 am–11:30 pm
Friday	6 am–11:30 pm
Saturday	6 am–11:30 pm

Address: Piazzale Aurelio, 5, 00152 Roma RM, Italy

Ristorante Il Fantino

I was looking for a place to have a quick lunch before heading to Fiumicino. I found this restaurant with positive reviews on Google Maps conveniently situated down the street from where I was staying. Il Fantino is in a quiet area within the Jewish Ghetto alongside the Portico of Octavia. There is a small indoor dining area and a beautiful courtyard adorned with hanging vines. I arrived right at the opening and was the first one there, but customers gradually started arriving, and before long, the outdoor dining area was filled up. Service was efficient and friendly.

The menu offers a simple selection of antipasti, pasta, secondi, and desserts. I ordered a Carciofo alla Romana (Fried artichoke), Rigatoni all’Amatriciana (Rigatoni with bacon, hot pepper, tomato, and Roman cheese), and a Tiramisu.

As I waited for my meal, they brought out a bruschetta. It was amazing—the warm bread with a fresh, pureed tomato topping was just perfect.

The fried artichoke, lightly seasoned with salt, offers a taste reminiscent of artichoke chips, albeit a tad oily.
The pasta was delicious, simple yet flavorful, and not spicy. Every rigatoni was perfectly coated in the sauce.

I found that the flavor, texture, and consistency of the Tiramisu are reminiscent of a custard than the type of Tiramisu that I prefer which is richer and creamier.

Ristorante Il Fantino

Website: https://www.ristoranteilfantino.it/
Telephone: +390666736928
Opening hours:

Saturday	12–3 pm 7–10:30 pm
Sunday	12–3 pm 7–10:30 pm
Monday	12–3 pm
Tuesday	Closed
Wednesday	12–3 pm 7–10:30 pm
Thursday	12–3 pm 7–10:30 pm
Friday	12–3 pm 7–10:30 pm

Address: Via di S. Angelo in Pescheria, 13/14, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

A hiddle gem: La Pace del Palato

Nestled in a charming alleyway adjacent to the bustling Piazza Navona lies La Pace del Palato, a hidden gem recommended by our Airbnb host. The restaurant features a rustic-chic setting with exposed brick walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The menu is small but each dish is carefully crafted to excellence.

Upon entering the restaurant, we were warmly greeted by Renato, the owner, whose polite and inviting demeanor immediately made us feel welcome.

If it wasn’t for our host’s recommendation, we might not have discovered this place.

We decided to try the puntarella salad and the beef fillet strips with artichokes and black truffle topped with Parmesan.

Puntarella is a type of chicory with a mild bitterness, resembling the texture of celery root and a touch of fennel. It’s a popular dish in Rome. The puntarella we ordered was refreshing and crisp, enhanced by the salty umami flavors from the anchovies.

The beef strips were tender and packed with flavor. The combination of tender beef, artichokes, and black truffle was simply delicious.

La pace del palato

Website: http://www.lapacedelpalatocatering.com/
Telephone: +390668135463
Opening hours:

Tuesday	7:30–11 PM
Wednesday	7:30–11 PM
Thursday	7:30–11 PM
Friday	1–4 PM 7:30–11 PM
Saturday	1–4 PM 7:30–11 PM
Sunday	1–4 PM 7:30–11 PM
Monday	Closed

Address: Via del Teatro Pace, 42, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

First meal in Rome at Antica Hostaria Romanesca

Came here on the recommendation of my Airbnb host, who spoke highly of it. He knew the owner and was kind enough to call ahead to let them know we were coming. The servers consisted of a mother-daughter duo. The mother greeted us warmly and escorted us to our seats, radiating hospitality and friendliness.
The restaurant, located in Campo de’ Fiori, offered simple, no-frills Roman cuisine. I was somewhat skeptical due to its touristy location, but to my pleasant surprise, the food turned out to be delicious. I left feeling satisfied and full.

Puntarelle is a classic Roman dish – refreshing, crisp, and savory. The saltiness of the anchovies helps soften the bitterness, and the olive oil just brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony. My host insisted that I try this dish, and I’m so glad I did.

Pollo e Peperoni (Chicken with onions, bell peppers and tomato)

The chicken was incredibly tender, with meat so tender it practically fell off the bone. The peppers were soft, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Bistecca alla Griglia (Grilled beef steak)

Abbacchio Scottadito (Grilled lamb chops)

Both grilled beef and lamb chops were tender and juicy. The exterior char added a delightful smokiness.

Tiramisu

The tiramisu had a light and creamy texture, with a custard-like consistency. However, it was slightly sweeter than I prefer.

Antica Hostaria Romanesca

Website: https://www.facebook.com/anticahostariaromanesca
Telephone: +39066864024
Opening hours:

Sunday	12–3 pm 7–11 pm
Monday	12–3 pm 7–11 pm
Tuesday	12–3 pm 7–11 pm
Wednesday	12–3 pm 7–11 pm
Thursday	12–3 pm 7–11 pm
Friday	12–3 pm 7–11 pm
Saturday	12–3 pm 7–11 pm

Address: Campo de’ Fiori, 40, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Rustic Eats and Seafood Treats at Da Maria

Da Maria is a simple rustic restaurant located in the heart of Almafi serving pizzas, pastas, and seafood. Our waiter was friendly, welcoming and spoke good English.

For our meal, we ordered a mixed salad, mixed grilled fish, homemade Scialatielli (a type of short thick pasta) with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and aubergines, and an assortment of fried fish.

The pasta had a nice chew to it and was bursting with vibrant tomato flavor.

The grilled seafood was fresh, lightly salted, and had this great smoky flavor.

The fried seafood platter had a mix of calamari, shrimp, anchovies, and zucchini. Although I’ve never been particularly fond of calamari, one bite of the fried calamari at Da Maria was enough to win me over. The crispy coating gave way to tender calamari, simply delicious!

Da Maria

Website: http://www.amalfitrattoriadamaria.com/
Telephone: +39089871880
Opening hours:

Sunday	12–3 PM 6:30–10 PM
Monday	12–3 PM 6:30–10:30 PM
Tuesday	12–3 PM 6:30–10 PM
Wednesday	12–3 PM 6:30–10 PM
Thursday	12–3 PM 6:30–10 PM
Friday	12–3 PM 6:30–10 PM
Saturday	12–3 PM 6:30–10 PM

Address: Via Lorenzo D’Amalfi, 14, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy

Shunsai Imari

Shunsai Imari is a restaurant serving Kyoto-style Obanzai, which is a traditional style of Japanese cuisine native to Kyoto. It’s also an excellent place to try Japanese-style breakfast.

Our waiter had good English and was attentive. The menu offers an array of dishes that highlight Kyoto’s vibrant palette of colors and flavors.

We decided to go with the 5 assorted Obanzai along with a grilled trout and black wagyu.

The dishes were not only delicious but also gave us that cozy, home-cooked feeling.

Marinated Enoki mushroom with grated radish, celery and lotus root in sweet sesame sauce, tofu and green pea cooked with egg , simmered eggplant in dashi soup, and Okara (soy pulp with chicken and vegetables).

Grilled trout marinated in citrus soy sauce

Black wagyu top round

Shunsai Imari

Website: https://www.kyoto-imari.com/

Telephone: +81752311354

Opening hours: 7:30 – 9:30 a.m., 17:30 – 22:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays

Address: 108 Nishirokkakucho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8217, Japan

Sweet Delights at Rivoire

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Rivoire, a historic chocolate shop founded in 1872 at the heart of Florence’s Piazza della Signoria, not only offers a delectable selection of chocolates but also tantalizing Italian pastries and sweets. Retaining its 19th-century charm, the shop features marbled tables and pink leather accent chairs amidst artwork adorning the dining hall. While seated in the outdoor area, guests can enjoy views of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Fountain of Neptune.

The cafe also offers a lovely breakfast menu featuring omelets, sandwiches, and a diverse selection of coffees and teas, along with gluten-free tarts for those with dietary restrictions. During my visit, I indulged in a yogurt with fresh berries, a sumptuous hot chocolate topped with cream, and a decadent tiramisu.

Notably, Rivoire still crafts its signature hot chocolate according to a secret recipe dating back 150 years, offering a thick, creamy, and indulgent experience. As for the tiramisu, it was my first taste of this classic dessert in Italy, and it was nothing short of divine—exuding delicate bitterness, creamy richness, and just the right amount of sweetness.

Rivoire

Website: https://rivoire.it/
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays 7:30 a.m. – 23:30 p.m.
Telephone: +39055214412
Address: P.za della Signoria, 5/R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Indulging in Italian Classics at Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi

Pasticceria Pansa, steeped in tradition since 1830, has been a purveyor of sweet confectionery, offering a delectable array of Classic Italian delights such as Sfogliatella, Tiramisu, and Pasticciotto. Inside the shop, the timeless ambiance lingers while outside, tables enjoy the radiant warmth of the Amalfi sunshine.

As I settled in, I indulged in a cup of coffee alongside a scoop of Bronte Pistachio gelato and a Lemon Delight.

Bronte pistachios are renowned globally for their exceptional quality, and this gelato truly lives up to that reputation. The gelato is smooth, creamy, and rich, showcasing the perfect intensity of pistachio flavor. Each spoonful is a blissful indulgence, leaving a lingering taste of pistachio perfection. It is one of the best pistachio gelatos I’ve had.

Originating from Almafi, the Lemon Delight is a dome-shaped sponge cake with lemon custard covered in a lemon glaze. While the sponge cake is light and airy, I found it a tad too sweet, which unfortunately overshadowed the delicate tartness of the lemon.

Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi

Website: https://www.pasticceriapansa.com/
Telephone: +39089871065
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 7:30 a.m. – 23:00 p.m.
Address: Piazza Duomo, 40, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy