A stone throw from the Vatican, Romeo chef and baker is a sleek dining room serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, is well worth a visit. It features modern bread-oriented food pairings and a deli counter salumi from Roscioli and a a’la carte menu from Chef Christina Bowerman, a Bari native who worked American kitchens in Austin and San Francisco.

Here’s what stood out for me; breads from Roscioli in Campo di Fiore, and chef Bowerman’s pastas, salumi and pickled vegetables. How to capture it all? Sublime! The waiter serving us was also excellent, providing wonderful recommendations, explanations and service around both food and wine – all this while controlling a very busy lunch crowd. And still smiling!