When in Rome…

By: Effetto Italy  On: January 26, 2018  In: Corporate News 

Well, I have finally recovered! Over 600 incentive and meeting professionals from 50 countries met for three days of amazing education, innovation and networking at the SITE & MPI Global Forum, held the Rome Cavalieri, Waldorf Astoria. When we weren’t attending event’s informative sessions and elegant functions, Effetto organized its own intimate evenings. And because Rome is my home town, I got to play hostess to my SITE friends and colleagues!

I had a blast showing off my own personal spots in the bustling area of Campo dei Fiori (aka. where I had my first apartment in Rome from 2001-2010). One night, we sampled (in my humble opinion) the best Spaghetti all’Amatriciana in the whole city at the rustic and very hidden trattoria Da Sergio. PS My Italian husband proposed to me here back in 2005 … so yes, I am a fan.

Another night proved to be truly a Roman gastronomic tour du force. Our group of twenty started off sipping exceptional reds and whites at one of the oldest wine bars in all of Rome. Tucked away on a little back street behind the beautiful Piazza Farnese, there sits what every oenophile would call a ‘divine’ spot. In fact, it is named Angolo Divino. Established in 1946, it began as a store that sold wine and olive oil to local bars. The Enoteca was created 22 years ago when wines by the glass as well as salumi, formaggi, bruschette and more were introduced. The exclusive wine list never fails to impress!

We then strolled back through Campo dei Fiori to dinner at our beloved Renato & Luisa. This ‘smart’ trattoria with a brick fireplace & stone arches is one of our top pics for classic Roman cuisine with modern twists. The chef Renato (a personal friend) throws passion into his all of his dishes, personally shopping at local vegetable and fish markets in Testaccio each day. For our special group, Renato worked with me on a lovely menu that he designed with handpicked ingredients: pasta with fresh rombo fish and antipasti of homemade stuffed zucchini flowers. And just to make your mouth water even more, the favorite dish of the evening was Renato’s version of the traditional Carbonara with his own flair: a splash of black truffle. BUONISSIMO!

Overall, it was a fantastic week. We all learned a lot, laughed a lot and met a lot of great people (over a lot of wine and a lot of pasta). See you at the next event!

A presto,
Jessica