In the province of Viterbo, in Caprarola, the same family has run Trattoria del Cimino for four generations. The arrival of Samuele Calistri, the younger and already famous sommelier, has given further impetus to a business that absolutely must be discovered. Vignadelmar‘s word.
Those who come to Rome have so much to see, to look at, to taste. So much that the vast regional hinterland lives only by reflected light, not as much as it deserves.
For example, the province of Viterbo has a wealth of Etruscan Civilization artifacts, then lots of wines, excellent oils, hazelnut groves as far as the eye can see, cheeses and restaurants. Not to forget then small towns, with a life very different from the congested Roman one. Such is the case with the town of Caprarola, famous for the spectacular Farnese Palace, a splendid example of Renaissance architecture. Here, for him, yes, they come from all over the world to admire it, but, however, were it closer to Rome, the lines at the ticket office would be endless.
This long preamble served to introduce you to this wonderful Trattoria del Cimino, which precisely is about two hundred meters from the Palace. They certainly do not have the same founding date but still one hundred and thirty years of activity is still not a few!
In fact, the management belongs to the same family since 1895 and three generations work there daily: grandmother, parents, children. Beautiful, finely decorated room, just a small vaulted room with a huge mirror at the back that makes it look much bigger and deeper. Samuel Calistri, the youngest family representative, a capable and famous sommelier with very important experience abroad, gave the whole thing a further boost, also helped by his brilliant girlfriend. They are a close-knit couple also in their love for their work.
The cuisine is very good, savory, not ethereal and quality
With two extensive menus from which you can indiscriminately draw: one with the dishes that have made them famous and the other with new offerings, perhaps more in line with seasonal trends. However and always with local products.
For example, we tried wonderful, crispy Asparagus with savory zabaglione; then Roasted Beef Marrow with its knife-edged tartare; homemade Pici alla amatriciana, as well as Tagliatelle with Viterbese beef ragu; unfailing Fried Pumpkin Flowers with tasty anchovies. I also loved the dish of Pork Livers with bread croutons and diced apples. Finally the desserts, with a very good Chocolate Salami and the tasty Hazelnut Cake that is a real must-have of theirs.
Drinking would deserve a dedicated article but go with confidence, you will find many excellent bottles, many from the territory, but also from the most famous Italian areas and of course from France. All proposals with prices to be solemnly commended: the very passionate Samuel is doing a great job!
Finally, the service, who is caring, attentive, friendly, familiar, who even when the place is full will never let you lack anything. They work so hard, reservations are highly recommended.
