Osteria Di Ponte — Restaurant in Rome

Although I am not typically one to write reviews, I felt compelled to share my experience of this establishment in the hope that others might discover it.

Atmosphere

The restaurant is situated some distance from the main, bustling streets, in a location one would be unlikely to happen upon by chance. As a result, it is significantly quieter than the roadside establishments, creating a wonderfully calm environment that is highly conducive to conversation. We visited rather late, at around 9 p.m., and found the outdoor tables pleasantly occupied by patrons enjoying a glass of wine or a family meal. The gentle murmur of their conversations seemed to blend perfectly with the surroundings, further enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.

The Food

As one might gather from previous reviews, the quality of the cuisine is of a particularly high standard. The Vongole spaghetti was truly exceptional—every bit as delicious as a similar dish I once enjoyed in Southern Italy, which cost close to fifty euros. The oxtail we also ordered was equally memorable, served with a beautiful aroma and a rich, satisfying flavour.

The Service

More than anything, it was the impeccable service that cultivated such a fine atmosphere and allowed us to fully appreciate the excellent food. My wife and I had been travelling in Italy for nearly three weeks, and during that time we dined at numerous restaurants, including some very highly-priced ones. I can say with confidence, however, that the service here was the most memorable of our entire trip.

The staff were unfailingly courteous, giving the distinct impression that they were constantly observing every table to anticipate their guests' needs, regardless of whose section it was. One gentleman in particular—I believe his name was Marcus, though it may have been Marco, as I understand Marcus is a less common name in Italy—impressed us greatly with his genuine and sincere approach to every customer.

Although we did not order the steak, watching him present and carve it for another table was a remarkable sight. The professional and attentive manner in which he served them, and indeed us, stands out as one of the single most memorable service experience of our time in Italy. (I feel certain that if I were his employer, I would have been inclined to give him a bonus.)

Final Thoughts

Regrettably, as it was our last day in Italy, we were unable to return. On our next visit, however, I am determined to try the steak.

I would also like to leave a final word for Marcus: thank you for sharing your interest in K-pop and Korean culture with us. Your engaging conversation and exemplary service have ensured that this restaurant will remain a truly fond memory for a long time to come.

I wish the restaurant continued and deserved success.

Thank...

Seriously 5 stars all around. I don't think I've given a place 5 stars all around before or if I did, there were less than a handful.

Firstly, from the moment we got there, Yaya, our server was so lively and welcoming so we already felt great there. The place is tucked in a corner of what seemed like a quieter street and inside wasn't too loud, it wasn't too cramped, and it felt intimate but not too fancy. Definitely would be a good place for a dinner date but I also think families would feel comfortable too. While we were studying the menu, Yaya also made it a point to approach our table to tell us he was there to answer any questions.

For our order, we saw rigatoni oxtail on the menu and jumped on it immediately. And the restaurant being a steak house, we of course had to take advantage and ordered a black Angus sirloin, and lamb ribs with roasted potatoes on the side. The rigatoni oxtail was hands down the best pasta we had in Rome. The sauce was perfection and rigatoni al dente. We even asked for more bread to soak up the rest of the sauce after finishing the pasta. When we told Yaya how happy we were with it, he explained that the oxtail was stewing for at least 4 hrs. The steak was so buttery andcooked the way I wanted it - medium rare. The lamb was not too gamey but still flavourful and tender.

If we find ourselves in Rome again, we will definitely come back. Thank you Yaya for making it such a personal and...

Perfect place! Interior: Dark environment in which there are ordinary lamps and garlands hung. This makes the interior as cozy as possible. We sat down on the street. From the table there was a wonderful view of a small European-style street. Service: The waiters here work at a professional level! They communicate in several languages, what I noticed are languages ​​such as Italian, English, Russian. As in all gourmet restaurants, upon arrival we were offered a drink of water before ordering. We ordered two seafood pastas, but for a long time we couldn’t decide on wine. We explained our preferences to the waiter and they recommended a really great wine. After ordering, we were offered appetizers to accompany our meals. Time: Wait for the order ± 30-40 minutes, but due to the fact that we were initially served wine with an appetizer, and also thanks to the excellent interlocutor with whom you go there, the time will fly by. Kitchen: The kitchen is truly the best! And this is without prejudice. The restaurant is famous for its meat and seafood products. The seafood pasta literally melted in your mouth, and the wine that was recommended to us also went well with the dish. Price: We paid about 73 € for everything, which is quite cheap for such a restaurant. Conclusion: This is a really chic and cozy place. With excellent waiters and really tasty dishes. I will go to this restaurant...