Complete your Roman dining experience with Cicoria Ripassata, a classic local contorno (side dish). This traditional preparation features leafy chicory greens, gently boiled and then sautéed in olive oil with garlic and chili. Served at Ristorante Pizzeria Marcantonio, it offers a true taste of Roman culinary tradition in the historic Borgo Pio neighborhood, located just steps from the Vatican gates.
Cicoria Near Vatican City
Why Cicoria Is So Popular in Rome?
To eat like a true Roman, you have to understand the city’s lifelong love affair with bitter greens. Cicoria is not just a side dish, it is a cultural staple found on every traditional Roman table.
The magic lies in the classic Roman technique called “ripassata in padella” (re-passed in the pan). After boiling the greens to soften their assertive bite, our chefs toss them in sizzling extra virgin olive oil infused with golden garlic and fiery chili flakes. Romans love this dish because its vibrant, pleasant bitterness (l’amaro) cuts effortlessly through rich dishes like roasted lamb (Abbacchio), grilled steaks, and creamy pastas.
For travelers looking for the best places to eat near Borgo Pio after visiting the Vatican Museums, ordering cicoria is the golden rule of authentic local dining Borgo Pio Rome is admired for. It is humble, bold, and bursting with character, the very reason Ristorante Pizzeria Marcantonio is celebrated as an authentic Roman restaurant in Borgo Pio.
Traditional Roman Cicoria Ingredients
-
Fresh field chicory leaves (Cicoria Catalogna)
-
Whole crushed Italian garlic cloves (Aglio in camicia)
-
Spicy dried red peperoncino flakes
-
100% cold-pressed Italian extra virgin olive oil
-
Coarse sea salt
Chef’s Pairing Suggestion
While cicoria is the quintessential Roman contorno (side dish) alongside grilled meats, its bold, garlicky warmth pairs wonderfully with a mineral-driven white like Bellone del Lazio or a light, fruit-forward Cesanese del Piglio DOCG at our Italian restaurant Borgo Pio.
Dietary & Health Highlights
-
Dietary: 100% Plant-Based | Naturally Vegan | Gluten-Free | Dairy-Free
-
Wellness: Famous in Mediterranean nutrition for natural digestive support and detoxifying antioxidants
Experience Real Roman Dining at the Best Restaurant in Borgo Pio
Step away from crowded tourist spots into the peaceful, paved alleys of Borgo Pio. Whether you are dropping by for a wholesome lunch or sitting down for a memorable romantic dinner in Borgo Pio, enjoy uncompromised quality at our authentic italian restaurant in borgo pio. Our Guest Mead Us Top restaurant in borgo pio
Find Us on Google Maps