Piatto Romano, Rome

My partner’s parents had come to stay with us for the summer, travelling all the way from Shanghai. It was their first visit to Europe and we wanted to take them somewhere that would be a romantic introduction. Rome seemed like the obvious choice, with all of its golden light and ancient attractions.

Naturally, I spent an unreasonable number of hours trawling reviews in search of restaurants that would showcase Roman food at its best. Somewhere in the depths of that search, I found Piatta Romano.

We began simply, with grilled vegetables. Yellow courgettes, cooked until just tender and then dressed generously with lemon, herbs, and olive oil. When the produce is this good, simple dishes become the most memorable ones.

Then came the pasta course. Spaghettoni arrived coated in a rich carbonara sauce. Carbonara is a non-negotiable order in Rome and after trying several across the city I can say this one held its own very well.

The tagliolini was the real surprise for my in-laws. The dried chilli peppers in the dish tasted almost identical to a variety used frequently in Chinese cooking. This dish is something that could easily have appeared in a noodle shop in China as comfortably as on a Roman menu.

Next came the meat course, beginning with beautifully cooked mutton chops. We are enthusiastic lamb eaters in this household and these were deeply satisfying: rich, tender and full of flavour.

But the real standout was the veal brisket. If you find yourself at Piatto Romano, simply order it. Don’t ask questions, just get it.

Finally came cod cooked slowly with onions and dried fruit. This one was not entirely for me. The fish itself was incredibly soft and delicate, but I have never been particularly convinced by dried fruit in savoury dishes. That said, if you are a fan of that sweet and savoury combination, it may well suit you.

For anyone visiting Rome for the first time, meals like this feel like a perfect introduction to the generous, deeply satisfying cuisine of the city.