It was 1961 and the Rinascente of Piazza Fiume in Rome opened its doors in this evocative Roman corner, nestled between the Pinciano and Salario districts, in the Porta Pia quadrant. About 60 years later, after renovation work that has restored the building to its former beauty, one of the best-known places in Rome is ready to welcome its clientele with a new look that betrays nothing of the original design, created by architects and designers Franco Albini and Franca Helg.
The work will continue in the coming months but already now the customers of one of the best-known commercial brands in Italy (an iconic name, born from a happy intuition by Gabriele D’Annunzio) will be able to visit the “new” Rinascente of Piazza Fiume and wander through the large spaces of this beautiful building, a harmonious synthesis between architecture and respect for the urban and historical context. And they can stop on the top floor of the structure to enjoy a space entirely dedicated to gastronomic excellence which Rinascente has entrusted to one of the best-known and appreciated brands in the food & beverage sector.
It will indeed be Enoteca La Torre Group that will take care of the restaurant part with a project capable of changing “attire” throughout the day. The team, which counts among its “creations” Enoteca La Torre Villa Laetitia, Enoteca La Torre Prati, Enoteca La Torre La Dogana, has the task of covering the whole day and the needs of a very varied clientele.
From 09:30 to 19:00 the bistrot menu offers sweet and savory breakfast, followed by the possibility of quick but carefully curated snacks and a mixology list featuring national and international proposals, in addition to a series of signatures created by the group’s bartenders.
The beating heart of this gastronomic enclave will obviously be the restaurant, both for lunch and dinner. The menu will feature the work of chef Antonio Autiero, long alongside the Michelin-starred chef Domenico Stile, at the helm of Enoteca La Torre Villa Laetitia for years. With a proposal designed to satisfy a broad clientele, with the plus of off-menu dishes following the seasons and the surprise of the carts, a pleasant “treat” that will delight the palate and imagination of guests. These are true “gastronomic carts” that will circulate among the tables, one dedicated to tartares of salmon and beef, with sauces, spices and special pairings. The other, the “Circus”, vaguely Fellinian in appearance, with the possibility for customers to choose from a selection of absolutely unmissable desserts.
An important role, as in all venues and events signed Enoteca La Torre, will be played by the wine list, always curated by maitre sommelier Rudy Travagli who in just over a year has enriched the group’s showcase with prestigious recognitions such as Best Service for the Gambero Rosso Guide 2021 and Best Cellar for the Espresso Guide 2022, both awarded to Villa Laetitia.
Completing the picture, a delightful terrace overlooking one of the most evocative views of this beautiful corner of Rome. The ideal place, especially in the good season, to sip a cocktail or a glass of sparkling wine, accompanied by the tasty finger foods offered by the kitchen.
