Although it has formed the reputation as being the hub of Rome’s nightlife, Testaccio has also been recognized as the original foodie di
strict in Rome
where you can find both authentic cuisine and modern twists on classic dishes. The New Testaccio Market is
located in the heart of the Testaccio neighbourhood – a working class neighbourhood tucked away from the bustling centre of Rome. The original market was located in the main piazza and was one of the oldest markets in the city. In 2012, however, the New Testaccio Market was officially opened with 103 stands where vendors offer local products to buy and to taste.
The market offers an authentic local market experience in a quintessentially Roman distict;
That is why we chose the New Testaccio Market for this week’s Mercato Monday.
Where: Entrances from Via Aldo Manuzio, Via Galvani, and Via Franklin. You can take Metro Line B, Piramide, Bus #23, or Tram #8 to get there.
When: Monday-Saturday, 7:00 to 15:30
Entrance: Free entry
The market itself is located inside a modern building strewn with skylights that keep the natural sunlight pouring in. This market is the place to go to get basically everything you need under one roof. From fresh produce, to high quality meats/cheeses, to cannolo, to wine – Mercato Testaccio has it all. There are even some vendors selling kitchenware, clothing, and other home goods. It is the perfect place to go to experience a slice of local life. Here are some of our highlights:
Mordi e Vai is a must try at Testaccio market. This Roman deli offers authentic Roman stuffed sandwiches. The shop owner and chef Sergio has transformed traditional cucina Romana into an assortment of savoury sandwiches including tripe, meatballs, braised beef, and sausage – all served on freshly baked bread.
La Prosciutteria di Enzo e Lina is the place to go for meats and cheeses. The shop owner prides himself on high quality products and will tell you all about it if you ask. Here you can choose from a wide selection of meats and cheeses from Norcia – the headliner is definitely the prosciutto.
Tucked away in the centre of the market you will find Le Mani in Pasta where you have the opportunity to purchase fresh noodles and fully prepared pasta dishes to take home or indulge in their dishes on site. Options include classic Roman dishes such as carbonara and cacio e pepe with truffles. All of their pastas are made from organic products and are hand-made in front of your eyes.
On the outskirts of the market you will also find a vino sfuso. Vino sfuso is traditionally known as wine that comes from grapes that are not good enough to be bottled. Nowadays, vino sfuso locations can be found all over the centres of Italy’s major cities offering a wide selection of prosecco and wines for incredibly low prices and the quality will suprise you! At Mercato Testaccio’s vino sfuso you can grab a glass of wine or prosecco for 2€ and enjoy it while to explore the rest of the market.
While strolling through the market you will also find a variety of fruit/vegetable vendors selling the fresh seasonal produce and artisanal products such as sauces, spreads, etc.
Last but not least is Strit Fud, just on the edge of the courtyard. Although this place may not be the most traditional in practice, it is worth drawing some attention to. Strit Fud offers take-away meals that have been heavily influenced by classic Roman recipes. However, the chef has used his creative license to create modern versions of cucina Romana – such as his take on pizza.
One of the great things about Mercato Testaccio is that it is so much more than just a place to buy food. It truly is an authentic cultural space where you can partake in Rome’s version of la dolce vita.
Whose your favourite vendor at Mercato Testaccio? Let us know in the comments!
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