Rome is, arguably, one of Europe's top food destinations. Gastronomic culture in the city can be traced back to Roman times and this strong link to the past, added to more recent outside influences, makes for a unique, stimulating, and diverse eating experience. Savoring Rome, A Culinary Stroll will touch on a few of the city's most cherished food traditions, with an emphasis on Rome's revered street food culture. Our docent, a food writer, chef or culinary educator, will lead us through the backstreets of the dense historical center, linking together our sensorial encounters with coffee, chocolate, pizza and ice cream with contextual information on the evolution of Rome's eternal fixation with culinary delights.

This walk begins close to the Jewish Ghetto, where we can sample some of Rome's legendary fried snacks. These delicious snacks make up a large part of traditional Roman gastronomy and can be traced back to the Jewish community. Depending on the season there may also be the opportunity to taste carciofi, or artichokes, which are a specialty of the city.

Though our route through the historic center will vary depending on season and the interests of the group, we will hit several different local shops that highlight the rich food culture of Rome. Whether it be pizza, coffee, gelato, or biscotti, all of our samplings will teach us a bit more about the tapestry of foodstuffs that are integral to the cultural attitudes and history of the city.

Our time will most certainly include an experience with a coffee (or cappuccino) at one of two historic cafes near the Pantheon. Here, we will discuss the history of coffee culture and its introduction into Italian society in the 16th century. We will also delve into the fierce rivalry between historic coffee shops who go to extreme lengths to safeguard their trademark brewing processes. Depending on the day and weekly roasting schedule, we will have the rare opportunity to observe the roasting process and learn about the sourcing of coffee beans all over the globe.

Though originally emerging from Naples, pizza, and more specifically, thin-crusted Roman style pizza, is the major player of the city's street food scene. Pizza al taglio, or by the slice, is the epitome of an on the go nosh, quick lunch or late-night midnight snack. At a local pizzeria we will discuss characteristic varieties, especially the renowned pizza bianca, together with the common accompaniment to pizza- fritti, deep-fried vegetable snacks.

To end on a sweet note, we will wrap up our walk at a family-run, artisanal gelateria, where gelato is made by hand using the freshest ingredients sourced from all over Italy. We will discuss the difference between industrial and hand-made gelato and the docent will train our eyes to differentiate ice cream created with chemical additives, as opposed to genuine products. In addition to classics like pistachio and hazelnut, we will try more inventive variations like chocolate and Nero d'Avola wine and sage and raspberry.

Through the experience of Savoring Rome, you will come away with an appreciation for and understanding of the rich culinary tradition that still exists in the center of Rome. Using the lessons learned with our gastronomic expert, you will comfortably be able to navigate Rome's cafes and food shops like a native.

Includes
- Services of a docent
- Tastings at food specialty shops

Excludes
- Meals and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activity costs

Please Note
- Walks are held rain or shine with some variations to accommodate the weather.
- Hotel pick-up can be arranged with an additional fee. Please inquire.