CIAO ASIA
First world problems: it’s Friday night, I live in Rome, and I want to eat out, what does my stomach say? "Ufff! a carbonara is coming or maybe a pizza margherita with mozzarella di bufala, yummy” ... What does my mind say (and sometimes my husband)?: “Adriana, make an effort, try other things, there are other types of food, other countries and cuisines, Rome is not just pasta and guanciale”. And for a while I try to figure out this dilemma, because for me living in a city with such an important and succulent cuisine becomes, sometimes, a double-edged sword. On one hand, I am fortunate to be able to enjoy an incredible dinner, just a few kilometers away from my house in my favorite trattoria or pizzeria, but on the other hand, sometimes, I miss out on the opportunity to try new places, other cuisines different than Italian, or Venezuelan (which I grew up with, and which I usually cook during the week)
Ok, once I manage to convince myself, I dedicate to researching international local proposals. That, which has a greater presence in this city, if not in the whole world, is Asian cuisine. In Italy, as in many countries, unfortunately, Asian food is often overcrowded and contaminated by other cuisines, which makes it difficult to find true traditional cuisines with high quality standards. But don't panic, I've done my homework well and below I give you the best options, those which I occasionally choose over Roman delicacies.
JAPANESE food
The gastronomy of this wonderful country is obviously not just sushi and california rolls. On the contrary, it is much more and better than that, and Shiroya proves it. This restaurant is located in the heart of ancient Rome, in the historic streets of Campo dei Fiori, but once you go in it takes you directly to the heart of Tokyo. The chef, originally from Japan (and this seems to be obvious, but many times it is not), proposes with his menu a real immersion in Japanese culture. You must absolutely try the Ramen, the noodles are rigorously made by them by hand. Don’t forget to make room for the sweet note, it is in the hands of Hiromi Cake (the first Japanese pastry shop in Rome).
After this experience if you have never traveled to Japan, I’m sure you will add this country to your bucket list (as it’s already on mine), whenever the pandemic allows us to travel again.
Shiroya
Via de’ Baullari 147a
00186, Roma
CHINESE Food
Chinese restaurants in Rome are everywhere, Chinese restaurants that also make Japanese food are also everywhere, but Chinese restaurants whose menus are not filled by other Asian cuisines, are just a few. Today I bring you one, which for me is the best I've tried here. It is called DAO, it’s located in the northeast part of the city, in a residential area called Conca d 'Oro. The owner Shu Jianguo, took on the task of bringing the true flavors and tradition of this ancient cuisine to Rome. Without being captivated by culinary trends, the chef Zhu Guangqiang, proposes traditional dishes with the highest quality raw materials. You absolutely have to try their Dim Sum proposal, small bites of pure Chinese culture.
Dao
Viale Jonio 328/330, Roma
INDIAN food
In the touristy and mythical Trastevere, you will find Jaipur, a hub of Indian gastronomy in the middle of Rome. Upon entering the first thing that stands out, is a wall full of photos with politicians and celebrities who visited the place. One picture of the Indian ambassador, for me, is a good sign. The service is welcoming; the staff always greets you with a smile (and these days this is not taken for granted) and offers you a welcome prosecco. If you wish, you can order the tasting menu to have a complete experience of the flavorful Indian food, but if you prefer to order on your own, these are my must-dishes: the classic Samosas (baked pastries stuffed with meat or vegetables), the Malai Kofta (meatballs of fresh cheese in a sauce of peanuts, nuts and sour cream), the Murgh Shahi Korma (chicken pieces cooked in a curry sauce and dried fruits). And don't forget the classic Indian bread, naan, or try roti (a version made with whole-wheat flour).
Jaipur
Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 56
00153, Roma.
-EXTRA-
SWEET japan
Hiromi Cake is the first Japanese pastry shop in the city. It has two places in Rome, and one in Milan. The main laboratory is located in the Prati - Vaticano area, and it is the perfect place to delve into Japanese sweet world. The kitchen is guided by four pastry chefs, all women, who are in charge of making traditional Japanese sweets such as Mochi (boiled rice balls with different fillings) and Dorayaki (rice flour pancakes traditionally filled with red bean jam). They also have Yougashi, a term they use to name famous western sweets, revisited in a Japanese way, such as Tiramisù Matcha, Yosu Tart (lemon pie) or different types of Cheese Cake. Each creation is a miniature piece of art, and it is an invitation, not only to the palate, but also appeals to our eyes.
Hiromi Cake Prati
Via Fabio Massimo, 31
00192, Roma
