da Etta — Restaurant in Rome

I was really looking forward to trying this restaurant after discovering it on Google Maps and seeing the beautiful photos online. Unfortunately, my experience did not live up to expectations.

Dining alone, I didn’t feel especially welcome from the start, which set the tone for the evening. After asking the difference between the fried artichoke and the “Roman-style” artichoke, I was surprised to learn I had mistakenly ordered zucchini flowers. The server did return with the Roman-style artichoke, but as he described, it was bland and steamed—not the fried artichoke I had expected. When I asked about the beautiful fried artichoke I saw online - I was curtly advised it was out of season. Interesting that I had a very nice one at da Enzo the next evening. Realizing my mistake, I asked for the zucchini flowers back, but they were heavily breaded, greasy, and filled with a gritty cheese that I found unpleasant. Certainly not delicate, and without any real zucchini flavor.

The beef tartare was described to me as "perfectly seasoned" and needing nothing. While the beef itself was good quality, it was essentially chopped raw beef with a few very small dots of mayonnaise. Without salt—which I had to request—it was nearly flavorless. I had expected more balance and seasoning.

No one ever checked in to ask how my meal was, which might have helped. Instead, when the bill came, I was asked if I’d like to add a tip—something I not encountered at any other restaurant in Rome. That left a sour note to end on, especially since I couldn’t wait to leave by that point.

Overall, I had high hopes for this spot given the location and presentation online, but the food execution and atmosphere didn’t...

If you're in Rome and looking for an unforgettable dining experience, this restaurant is a gem you simply cannot miss. From the moment you step in, you're greeted with a warm and inviting ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable meal.

One of the standout features is their extensive wine list, boasting over 2,000 selections. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just someone who enjoys a good glass of vino, you'll be impressed by the variety and quality of their offerings. And the best part? The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it easy to indulge without breaking the bank.

The food here is nothing short of exceptional. We tried the rombi fish, which was perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The pasta dishes were equally divine, with a variety of ravioli options that left us spoiled for choice. Each bite showcased the restaurant's dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional Italian cooking techniques.

In a city filled with amazing food, this restaurant truly stands out. Whether you're a local or a tourist, make sure to add it to your list. It’s a dining experience that encapsulates the best of Rome's...

I would have given this place 5 stars for the great food, if it weren't for the distasteful move at the end of the evening when it was time to pay. The waiter brought the machine for credit card payment and added options for tipping starting at 10% and going up to 25%. This is not the culture nor the norm in Italy, and there was no option to drop the tip. Since I was inviting my friends that night, I was embarrassed to ask about dropping the tip option and ended up paying 20 euro in tips. This may be very normal in North America, but again is unheard of in Italy and frankly I think the locals would rather keep it that way (people usually keep tip to a small amount here - only few euros). Please don't feel obliged to use % for tip here or anywhere. Just leave whatever amount you want ti give in your table. Don't let them push you!

Message to the restaurant: I think you should reconsider your ways of asking for tip. This was not a fair move and it is too bad, cause your restaurant is...