If you want pretty, Instagrammable desserts, look elsewhere. The biscuits at Pasticceria Boccione (known to most just as “the pasticceria in the Jewish Ghetto”) are not particularly beautiful, often looking a bit lumpy or burned. But they’re absolutely delicious. Soft, squidgy almond biscuits, ricotta and sour cherry tart, and some unidentifiable wedge of cake filled with candied fruit and almonds… it’s all so good. The toasted, salted pumpkin seeds are an acquired taste but also worth a try. Oh, and that burned cake? It’s meant to look that way. There used to be a papal decree forbidding Jews from selling dairy products, so Jewish bakers hid the ricotta under an extra thick layer of pastry.
Boccione is very much a no-frills sort of place, and the service can be brusque, but it’s a historic bakery in one of the most ancient neighbourhoods in Rome, and I think its popularity with locals is justified. Just like its building – a crumbling orange ruin that also looks like it’s spent too much time in the oven – Boccione is part of the Eternal City’s history.
Via del Portico d'Ottavia 1
Biscuits:
€
5
+39
066878637
Find your way with 163 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Gelateria Fassi" in Rome is a historical gelato shop almost all locals know. The atmosphere takes you back in time, and it's open 24/7, too!
by
"Al Gallo Rosso" in Rome is loud, informal and sincere. The perfect pizzeria to take your friends for some arrosticini to enjoy the company of each other!
by
"Parco della Caffarella" in Rome has been my gym, my mountain, my restaurant, my first date. I wouldn't be the same today without this piece of nature...
by
"Caffè Ciamei" has the oldest coffee license in Rome and it's still one of my favorite places in town to get a cup. Try their cremina instead of sugar!
by
"Via dei Cappellari" is a little side street that is completely reminiscent of the Old Rome, with its staying away from the logic of profit...
by
"Porta s. Sebastiano" used to be an ancient entrance to the city of Rome. Today, you can walk along the walls and enjoy the stunning views...
by
Cartoleria Internazionali, one of Rome’s oldest stationery shops, offers notebooks, pens & art supplies — a charming stop between Campo de’ Fiori and Trastevere.
by
At Caffe ai Banchi Vecchi, start your day with coffee, cool off with Rome’s best shakerato, and end with a spritz at sunset in a charming piazza.
by
Caffe Novecento near Piazza Navona with its Parisian decoration, offers sweet treats, teas, and light bites. It's perfect for a calm break in historic Rome.
by
Rosso Eat Drink Stay near Circo Massimo serves brunch to dinner with Italian flair, a bohamian vibe, and must-try fries. Try it with dessert or limoncello!
by
163 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 163 Insider Tips