Gastro Traveling

Start Off With the Rosemary Focaccia at Lupa

Here’s a tip both for price and beating the crowds…Lupa…the no-nonsense Roman trattoria, is best experienced at lunch!  Here, Mario Batali celebrates real Italian dishes you definitely won’t find at your local pizza joint.  For a quick seat, head to the rustic bar and some rosemary focaccia will promptly be whisked in front of your nose.  The first few bites are sure to stretch your taste buds for the meal ahead.  Now you’re ready for their selection of Antipasti E Salumni ranging from $6-$10.  My favorites are the tender rabe with ricotta bursting with vitamins and the Prosciutto Di Parma.  No nonsense entrees like the feather light ricotta gnocchi with sausage and fennel ($16),  squash pansotti with sage ($18), and braised melt in your mouth lamb are sure to satisfy.  Or if you want to keep your experience rooted in the basics, just dive into their house made pasta tossed in butter or olive oil. And there’s always room for Tartufo, a rich combo of chocolate, hazelnut, and cherry ice cream all melded  into one sweet and tasty bonanza….the perfect finale!