19.07.2011 / World Bulletin
Walking around Pigneto
Ask a Roman about the city’s emerging neighborhood and the answer will probably be Pigneto.
A former working-class area dear to Pier Paolo Pasolini, who shot some scenes of his movie Accattone along its streets, it lies just beyond the walls of the city, at the convergence of Prenestina and Casilina.
Lately, while staying a deeply multiethnic neighborhood, Pigneto has been undergoing a renaissance, becoming crowded with shops and restaurants, and thus attracting students, young couples, artists and film industry people.
Today, the atmosphere is vibrant and stimulating, especially in the evening, when the lights turn on and the night spots get crowded. Here are a few places you can’t miss.
Primo al Pigneto
An informal but stylish restaurant where chef Marco Gallotta creates his revisited traditional dishes – unburdened from fats and log cooking times. Pop by also for a quick drink and a snack.
Necci
The famous bar where Pierpaolo Pasolini shot a famous scene from Accattone is now one of the most popular restaurants of the neighborhood. British chef (and former artist) Ben Hirst, who also runs cooking courses, offers an eclectic and ever-changing menu. Have yorself a good meal in the garden – but don’t forget to reserve.
Qui se magna
An authentic historic hosteria where you can savour Rome’s traditional cuisine.
Circolo degli Artisti
Slightly off the center of the neighborbood, this place devoted to independent and experimental art is a much-loved meeting place for young people. The reasons are quite obvious: a nice location, a huge garden and some great live concerts. Saturday is club night and every Sunday you can join the aperitif.
Bunka
A small workshop and boutique selling hand-made clothes and accessories.
