This piece is embarrassingly late but you know how that saying goes…
I had been wanting to dine at Michelin star Il Pagliaccio in Rome since moving there years ago. And I finally did - all thanks to the General Manager and incredible host Matteo Zappile who invited me and my Davvero Italy as a special guest!
Needless to say I was beyond ecstatic for what would be the most memorable degustation and dining experience I’ve had to date, due to the culinary talents of Calabrese born chef Anthony Genovese. But before I dive into the food, a bit more about Il Pagliaccio Ristorante…
Opened in 2003 by Anthony Genovese and Marion Lichtle on Via dei Banchi Vecchi, right in the heart of Rome (but tucked far enough away) Il Pagliaccio was born. And a mere three years later, it was awarded its first Michelin star.
The restaurant’s name literally translates from Italian to “The Clown” and similar to that same character displaying and evoking so many different emotions within the circus, Chef Genovese and his Il Pagliaccio restaurant does exactly the same for their patrons.
It’s a different kind of show though, but one that still conjures up curiosity, excitement, surprise – and sometimes even nostalgia – with each and every dish.
One of the first players in the fine dining scene in Rome, Italy, Il Pagliaccio has continuously renewed itself over the years in style, theme and techniques but always keeping their heart and soul and remarkable standard when it comes to food. In more recent years, the restaurant returned back to its roots and the original idea revolving around a “circus of flavors”. And the creation of the new “Parallels Experience” restaurant-within-a-restaurant sums it all up beautifully - “a dynamic and engaging experience reserved for 6 guests per evening in an intimate and private room for a taste journey around the world”, and a dining experience to remember for a lifetime.
In their own words: “Il Pagliaccio has an eclectic personality (that) looks outward with curiosity, while maintaining a respectful approach to the environment and sustainability.”
The philosophy: Refined and intimate yet playful and fun
The setting : Chic, modern, minimalist and sophisticated in its design with pops of color throughout the place, brightening up the mood as well as each room
And the service: Outstanding
“A journey is always a discovery; sensations, scents and colors, remembering the first twenty years, touching the cities that have marked my path, my focus on the world.” – Chef Anthony Genovese.
Chef Genovese has a special talent for combining exotic flavors and ingredients, inspired by his experiences around the world and transforming them into the most creative and aesthetically appealing dishes. Il Pagliaccio’s tasting menu is a true journey of discovery that explores food and all of the sensations and senses that are involved with eating – taste, scents, colors, textures and emotions. Plates that not only surprise the palate but also play with your mind. The most unique and fun fine dining experience I have had in Rome yet.
Parallels’ 14-course menu is a Chef’s Choice of sorts and a totally blind tasting consisting of a montage of plates and wines paired perfectly alongside. “A journey spanning from East to West, crossing the Mediterranean (blending) technique and passion, heart and research, and satisfying the mind and spirit”.
Every course was a new act, every uniquely designed “plate” served as the stage, and every dish an absolute work of art. So much so I didn’t want to bite into it. But obviously, I did.
Expect: Colorful, creative cuisine, unique ingredient combinations and explosive, surprising flavors that trick and tease the senses. Plus a super stellar staff.
A special culinary journey and sensory dining experience with a superb food and wine pairing, Il Pagliaccio reminds you that fine dining can also be fun, that food is art and yes, sometimes it’s okay to “play” with your food :)
Grazie di cuore Matteo, Chef Anthony and the rest of the amazing staff at Il Pagliaccio Roma for taking such great care of me. It was an evening and meal that I will never forget!
I was gifted the special menu after my tasting dinner, listing everything I ate but…because the dishes are forever changing and seasonal - and also because pictures are sometimes stronger than words, here are my best food pics from my dinner extravaganza at Il Pagliaccio:
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