La Pergola: Rome’s Only Three-Michelin-starred Restaurant

La Pergola, a new Northern Italian restaurant, has opened in Millburn at 120 Essex Avenue. The establishment is owned by Agron and Driola Kaloshi, a couple originally from Albania who now reside in New Providence. The owners chose Millburn for its central location, noting the presence of the Paper Mill Playhouse and convenient parking directly across from the restaurant. The Kaloshis gained their experience in the restaurant industry while living in Italy and working with their families. La Pergola marks their first joint venture as restaurant owners. Having been open for just over a month, La Pergola's menu features classic Northern Italian dishes. These include popular items such as fried calamari, pasta fagioli soup, veal milanese, and chicken fiorentino. A key highlight of the restaurant is its commitment to fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. Driola Kaloshi emphasized that all pastas are handmade in-house, and fresh fish and meats are delivered approximately four times a week. The menu also caters to vegetarians, offering homemade pastas like linguini and fettuccine, as well as various grilled vegetable dishes and panini sandwiches. During a visit, a pumpkin soup garnished with walnuts and raisins was sampled, alongside bruschetta and La Pergola's homemade focaccia, all of which received positive remarks. A tour of the kitchen showcased a welcoming and efficient staff, while the basement revealed a meticulously organized storage room and refrigeration unit. Driola highlighted the careful handling of fresh seafood, which is consistently kept on ice. The restaurant is situated in the former Vera Wang wedding gown store, and its interior design thoughtfully incorporates the building's original architectural elements. Driola, who also has a background in interior decorating, was responsible for the restaurant's aesthetic. The decor features white and crème-colored walls, Old-World inspired wooden chairs, and brass lighting fixtures, aiming for a sophisticated, New York-influenced Italian style. The walls display vibrant artwork by Chatham artist Steven C. Fleisch, with plans to feature pieces from other local artists in the future. The renovation process for the restaurant took seven months, encompassing necessary permits, kitchen installation, and other structural changes. Agron Kaloshi, who also works as a banker, contributes his extensive knowledge and restaurant experience to the business. La Pergola is scheduled to participate in Millburn Restaurant Week, which will run from April 2-9. The restaurant's operating hours are Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, Saturday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Further details and menu options are available on their website, www.lapergolanj.com. #RestaurantReview #ItalianCuisine #MillburnNJ #LocalBusiness #FineDining #NewRestaurant #FarmToTable

Pergola Paddington was a popular pop-up restaurant and bar located at 5 Kingdom Street, London W2 6PY, operating from May 2 to the end of September 2019. It aimed to recreate a high summer Balearic coast atmosphere, becoming a regular fixture on the Paddington scene. The venue was designed for an alfresco experience, with the roof removed from the top deck and the ceiling raised downstairs, providing space for up to 850 guests to dine, drink, and socialize. The establishment featured a rotating roster of food traders to maintain variety. The initial lineup for the 2019 season included four distinct culinary offerings: Babek Brothers, known for their leftfield kebabs; Honi Poké, specializing in Hawaiian poke bowls; An Choi, a new venture from the team behind Salvation in Noodles, offering Vietnamese cuisine; and Smash Patty, a burger concept from the creators of Patty & Bun. This diverse selection aimed to cater to various tastes and preferences among its large clientele. Beyond the food, Pergola Paddington offered a comprehensive entertainment and leisure experience. DJs provided music throughout the weekend, contributing to the lively atmosphere. For those seeking a more relaxed setting, day beds were available for booking. The bar featured a specially curated summertime cocktail menu, designed to complement the Balearic theme. Additionally, the venue hosted a bottomless brunch on Sundays, a popular offering for weekend visitors. While bookings were recommended, particularly for groups or during peak times, walk-ins were also welcomed, allowing for spontaneous visits. The venue's address was conveniently located near Paddington Tube station, making it accessible via public transport. Pergola Paddington was managed by Pergola on the Roof, and further information, including reservation options, was available on their website. #PergolaPaddington #PopUpRestaurant #LondonRestaurants #Paddington #AlfrescoDining #SummerEvents #FoodMarket #CocktailBar

Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá, located in the hills near the Vatican, offers an urban resort experience in Rome, blending cultural immersion with relaxation. The property, part of The Leading Hotels of the World, maintains a monastic past, evident in its serene ambiance and architecture, while also belonging to Meliá Hotels International. It provides a quiet escape from the bustling city, with amenities catering to both families and couples seeking tranquility. The hotel is currently undergoing a room refresh, with select suites being redesigned to feature a contemporary, wellness-oriented aesthetic. These updated rooms incorporate rich woods, clean lines, and midcentury-inspired furniture with deep green and navy velvet accents, aiming for an airy and curated feel with enhanced natural light. Meanwhile, some suites retain an original Italian Deco style, characterized by moody grays, luxurious fabrics, and a bold, opulent design reminiscent of 1990s Versace or Miami mansions. Both room styles are designed with family comfort in mind, offering separate living areas and dressing spaces to ensure privacy and comfort for all guests. Dining options include Gala, a Mediterranean eatery known for its garden-and-poolside patio, ideal for aperitivo and dinners featuring dishes like octopus. Follo serves as the fine dining establishment, offering multi-course tasting menus. The bar at Gala is noted for its innovative cocktails, such as the Mezcalgroni, and provides a social atmosphere for guests to interact. The service at Villa Agrippina is described as classic luxury, characterized by attentive and efficient staff. Many team members have long tenures, contributing to a welcoming and personalized guest experience, including impromptu mixology classes for departing guests. The hotel's spa offers a comprehensive thermal circuit, including a steam room, sauna, warm pool, and cold showers, utilizing Clarins products for treatments. Massage services are highlighted for their quality and personalized approach, with therapists extending sessions as needed to ensure thorough care. The location is advantageous, being a short walk from the Tiber River and a 20-minute stroll to the Vatican, with a convenient Metro stop nearby. However, the hotel's elevated position means the return walk can be challenging after a day of sightseeing. While suitable for families due to spacious rooms, the on-site entertainment for children is limited primarily to the pool. The hotel emphasizes a "Sauna. Pool. Aperitivo. Repeat." wellness philosophy, encouraging guests to embrace a relaxed Roman lifestyle. #RomeHotel #LuxuryTravel #VillaAgrippina #VaticanProximity #ItalianHospitality #SpaExperience #FineDining #HotelDesign

Rome is preparing for a significant year, marked by a Catholic jubilee, which occurs every 25 years. This event, commencing on December 24 with the opening of the holy door in St Peter’s Basilica, is expected to draw millions of pilgrims seeking plenary indulgence. Coinciding with this momentous period, a new luxury establishment, the Romeo Roma, has opened its doors on Via di Ripetta, near Piazza del Popolo, after over a decade of development. This is the second hotel from the family-owned Romeo Collection, situated within an elegant 17th-century palazzo. The Romeo Roma is among several ultra-luxury hotels that have recently launched or are under development in Rome, including the Bulgari, the W, the Edition, the Rosewood, a forthcoming Four Seasons, and a Nobu. The Six Senses, an IHG-owned wellness brand, also opened its first European hotel in Rome in early 2023. The Romeo Roma distinguishes itself with a starting rate of approximately £2,000 per night, positioning it as one of the world's most expensive hotels. This price point surpasses that of competitors like the Bulgari, a detail the hotel seems to emphasize. Key to the Romeo Roma's extraordinary appeal are its high-profile collaborators: Zaha Hadid, who designed the interiors, and Alain Ducasse, responsible for the culinary offerings. The hotel's design is characterized by avant-garde elements, featuring lacquered Macassar ebony and Carrara marble. The restoration of Palazzo Capponi, originally a government office, began in 2012 and uncovered an ancient workshop in the basement. The construction involved the careful integration of tons of wood, marble, and steel, all while preserving the historical integrity of the building, which includes a rotating head of Livia Drusilla in a glass case in the lobby. The lobby itself, formerly the palazzo's inner courtyard, now boasts a retractable glass roof, a vaulted steel lattice ceiling, a red Schulze Pollman grand piano, Rubinacci floor cushions, and an uplit waterfall that spells out “ROMEO” in rainbow-colored water. The rooms continue the space-age aesthetic, with Hadid’s signature curves evident in the ebony beds, mirrored TV stands, and sinuous white spa baths. Some rooms even feature original 17th-century frescoes discovered during renovation. The owner, Alfredo Romeo, expressed the challenge of merging historical heritage with innovative contemporary architecture and sustainability. Culinary experiences at the Romeo Roma are a major draw. Il Ristorante Alain Ducasse offers a ten-course tasting menu for £232, featuring dishes such as charred puntarelle and pink venison. Breakfast by Alain Ducasse, included in the room rate, provides an extensive spread and the Monégasque chef’s signature hot chocolate. The slightly less extravagant Il Cortile offers a Roman menu with pasta, pizza, and fish amidst Carrara marble columns and a shimmering ebony ceiling. The hotel also includes a Sisley spa with treatment rooms, a hammam, an infrared sauna, and a Sicilian salt relaxation room. The hotel caters to a distinguished clientele, as evidenced by the attendance of ambassadors from various countries at its opening. Despite its opulent nature, the hotel considers micro-level details, such as staff remembering coffee orders and personalized amenities like silk eye masks and branded toiletries. The owner, Alfredo Romeo, personally approved many details, including eclectic artworks and custom furniture. While some minor issues, like a lack of bathroom hooks or temperamental lighting, were noted, they are attributed to opening jitters. The article concludes by highlighting Rome's attractions during the jubilee year, including pedestrianized areas, renovated historical sites, and new cultural experiences, affirming the city's appeal beyond the hotel's luxury. #LuxuryHotel #RomeTourism #ZahaHadid #AlainDucasse #HotelDesign #JubileeYear #ItalianHospitality #ArchitecturalInnovation #HistoricalPreservation

Rome, known as the Eternal City, continually offers new experiences to visitors, despite its ancient origins. The hotels in Rome are not merely places for rest; they serve as significant chapters in the city's rich, millennia-old history. This guide highlights a curated selection of Rome’s finest hotels, each providing a unique perspective on the city’s historical and cultural significance, accommodating various preferences from luxurious opulence to serene retreats and affordable yet stylish options. The Bulgari Hotel Roma, which opened in 2023 after a four-year renovation of a 1930s Rationalist building in Piazza Augusto Imperatore, exemplifies luxury. Its interiors, designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, feature signature Bulgari mosaics, lacquered wood, and rippled marbles. The hotel's 110 rooms and suites are adorned with handblown glass lamps, Ginori vases from the 1930s, and colorful Brocatelle, red jasper, and Carrara marbles. The spa, inspired by the 3rd-century Baths of Caracalla, boasts a 20-meter pool with arabesque marble columns. The culinary offerings, guided by three-Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito, include six food and beverage outlets, with Il Ristorante on the fifth floor providing views of the Mausoleum of Augustus. For those who appreciate maximalist design, Casa Monti, opened in 2024, is a 36-key property situated in the trendy Monti neighborhood. Designed by Laura Gonzalez, known as the “queen of color,” each room features bespoke lampshades, patterned headboards, energetic wallpaper, and clashing patterns. The hotel includes a rooftop bar, a terrace restaurant serving homemade pasta, and a patio bar. A rooftop spa, created in the spirit of Roman baths, offers a jacuzzi, a terrace overlooking the city, and treatments with Susanne Kaufmann products. Hotel de Russie, endorsed by French poet Jean Cocteau as “paradise on earth,” is a prestigious address near the Spanish Steps. Designed by Giuseppe Valadier, it features a tiered Secret Garden, an al fresco dining spot. Reopened in 2000 with interiors by Olga Polizzi, the hotel offers a serene escape. Amenities include Le Jardin restaurant, the De Russie Spa, and a gym, with suites featuring Roman-style mosaics and Italian marble bathrooms. Six Senses Rome, launched in 2023, marks the luxury group's first urban venture, maintaining its signature zen ambiance within a bustling city center. Located in Piazza di San Marcello, it offers 96 rooms and suites, a robust wellness program with personalized facial treatments and Roman bathing circuits, nutritional cuisine at BIVIUM restaurant, and fresh seafood at NOTOS Rooftop. The spacious rooms are decorated in calming neutrals and plush furnishings. Hotel Eden, a Dorchester Collection property, is housed in an 1887 residential apartment-turned-hotel. After a 2017 renovation, it features the La Terrazzo fine dining rooftop restaurant with views of St. Peter’s Dome, a more casual Il Giardino Ristorante, a spa with Valmont products, and RLX Aurasens loungers. The hotel also offers sailing excursions to the Pontine Islands. J.K. Place Roma, a high-end boutique hotel in a former architecture school, provides an intimate experience with only 27 rooms and luxury suites. Its polished design is complemented by an executive chef, Blasco Vannucchi, who uses fresh market ingredients. The hotel offers concierge services for private tours and experiences. Hotel de la Ville, an 18th-century palazzo, blends classical Roman design with vibrant colors. It features a popular rooftop bar, a tranquil inner courtyard for breakfast, and Cafè Ginori, which serves Roman and seafood dishes on namesake porcelain. The Irene Forte spa offers proprietary skin products and an extensive thermal area. Its location on Pincian Hill provides sunset views over Rome. Hotel Vilòn, a 17-room hotel in the Campo Marzio neighborhood, was originally a 16th-century Borghese family residence. Its Art Deco and mid-century modern interiors, by Giampiero Panepinto and Paolo Bonfini, create cinematic spaces. The Adelaide Restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine in a lush courtyard, and a living room bar provides a cozy atmosphere. The Rome Edition, housed in a 1940s former bank building, offers a sleek design with a colossal marble-clad lobby. Its atmosphere is one of stylish serenity, reflected in neutral-toned guest rooms and the speakeasy-style Punch Room. Anima, the hotel’s signature restaurant, provides courtyard dining with a menu by chef Antonio Gentile, while the Yves Klein Blue Room offers an indoor alternative. A rooftop with a travertine plunge pool and cocktails completes the experience. The Hoxton, Rome, located in the upscale Parioli neighborhood, provides stylish yet affordable accommodation with 192 bedrooms, a cocktail bar, and a restaurant. The design incorporates Murano glass chandeliers, vintage furnishings, and parquet floors. The hotel is situated in a 1970s modernist building surrounded by villas and art galleries, offering a light and green atmosphere, with nearby grocery and weekend markets. This selection of hotels showcases the diverse and luxurious accommodation options available in Rome, each contributing to an immersive and memorable visit to the city. #RomeHotels #LuxuryTravel #ItalianHospitality #BoutiqueHotels #HistoricProperties #HotelDesign #RomeTourism #VogueTravel #EternalCity

Violino d’Oro, a five-star boutique hotel unveiled by Collezione Em from the Maestrelli family, is situated a short walk from St. Mark's Square in Venice. This property aims to offer an immersive experience into Venetian culture, blending tradition with contemporary design, sustainability, and an authentic Venetian spirit. The hotel reflects the Maestrelli family's over three decades of experience in hospitality, emphasizing respect for cultural heritage and excellence. It has been recognized by The Leading Hotels of the World, signifying its status among exclusive global destinations. The hotel is housed within three meticulously restored 17th-century buildings. The interior design prioritizes silence, texture, and natural light. Every detail, from the materials to the subtle scents, contributes to a unique atmosphere. Sara and Elena Maestrelli have guided the reimagining of Venetian hospitality with a focus on sophistication and human connection. The decor features fabrics by Rubelli, lamps by Venini, artisanal Venetian terrazzo floors, and a curated collection of Italian art and design, all harmoniously integrated. The 32 rooms and suites balance elegance and comfort, showcasing a blend of clean-lined Italian furniture, Oriental pieces, Venetian antiques, and contemporary elements. Canal views, high ceilings, and a soft color palette contribute to a serene and sophisticated ambiance. Sara Maestrelli describes the hotel as an “artisanal Italian project designed like a home,” with everything from glassware to headboards crafted locally in Venice and Tuscany, using noble materials and skilled craftsmanship. Velvets, brocades, and damasks from Rubelli, Carrara marble inlays, and hand-blown Murano glass lamps are prominent features, each with a unique story and tactile quality. Sustainability is a core philosophy at Violino d’Oro, extending beyond a marketing label. This commitment is evident in the use of local materials, support for artisan economies, and mindful resource management, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility and the future of luxury travel. The hospitality is characterized by warmth, attentiveness, and personalized service, with staff trained to anticipate guest needs, offering a balance of professionalism and approachability. Breakfasts are served in a sun-drenched dining room, featuring fresh, seasonal, and organic produce, artisanal pastries, and made-to-order coffee, catering to various dietary preferences. The serene atmosphere is designed to promote a sense of well-being. The hotel's culinary highlight is Il Piccolo, an intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant with nine tables. It offers a contemporary, plant-forward menu based on local and seasonal ingredients, complemented by creative cocktails from head bartender Francesco. The menu evolves with the seasons, combining innovative techniques with traditional respect for ingredients. Violino d’Oro offers unique experiences connecting guests to the soul of Venice. These include Venetian cooking classes, yoga by the canals, mixology workshops, and private visits to artisan ateliers like Rubelli or Micheluzzi. Cultural tours provide access to lesser-known parts of the city, operas, or private palaces. Tailor-made experiences such as sunrise photography walks, guided strolls through Dorsoduro, private lagoon cruises, and food tours through traditional Venetian bacari are also available, aiming to foster a deep connection with the city. Excursions to Murano and Burano are also arranged, offering insights into glassmaking and lace-making traditions, respectively. Murano provides opportunities to observe glass artisans at work and purchase unique pieces, while Burano captivates with its colorful houses and the delicate craft of handmade lace. The hotel aims to provide a new way of experiencing Venice—authentic, sophisticated, and deeply emotional, a sanctuary that makes guests feel at home while offering an exceptional and unique stay. #VenetianLuxuryHotel #BoutiqueHotel #VeniceTravel #ItalianDesign #SustainableHospitality #CulturalImmersion #ArtisanCraftsmanship #MichelinRestaurant #HistoricRenovation

Milan has established itself as a hub for exceptional culinary experiences, offering a diverse array of dining establishments designed by local talent. These venues not only provide aesthetic nourishment but also cater to a wide range of tastes, from traditional Italian to Japanese-inspired and Greek cuisines. This article highlights four distinct Milanese culinary destinations: Mogo, Vasiliki Kantina & Gastronomia, Caruso Nuovo Bistrot, and Odachi, each presenting a unique design philosophy and gastronomic offering. Mogo, situated in the Isola district, is a 3,700-square-foot hi-fi bar and restaurant inspired by Japanese jazz kissa cafes. The name 'mogo,' meaning 'union' in the South African language Sotho, reflects its intention to bring together music, culinary arts, craft cocktails, and design. Designed by Milan native Giorgia Longoni, the interior features a cinematic environment characterized by interwoven exposed concrete and ductwork with rose-toned oak millwork. Aquamarine resin flooring, custom chairs upholstered with Brochier fabric, Alpi burl tables, and site-specific tapestries by Andrea Marco Corvino contribute to a hushed, intimate atmosphere that blends softly industrial elements with warm mid-century aesthetics. Vasiliki Kantina & Gastronomia, a 430-square-foot space in Porta Romana, offers an authentic and refined Greek experience. Designed by Joy Herro, who runs both an interiors studio and an art/design consultancy, the space features a ceiling hand-painted with an interpretation of the myth of Persephone and Demetra by Terps (Terpsichore Τερψιχόρη ερψιχόρη). This Greek artist also crafted the goddess-adorned linen curtain and ceramic door handle. Tino Seubert's raffia-topped stools line a Kavalas Greek marble counter, all set amidst crisp, Santorini-white plaster archways, subtly telling Greece's story through food, wine, and design. Caruso Nuovo Bistrot, located within the historic Grand Hotel in Centro Storico, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary with an interior refresh by Britt Moran and Emiliano Salci of Dimorestudio. This establishment, a homage to Milanese and Neapolitan cooking, showcases Dimorestudio’s signature 'restrained maximalism.' The design harmoniously blends Northern Italian aristocracy with bohemian glamour through details such as walls and benches upholstered in Prelle jacquard, seven custom chandeliers made of Brunello-colored silk jersey, and Murano glass sconces. For the outdoor veranda, custom wallpaper and Mathieu Matégot-inspired furnishings, including Antica rattan chairs by Mario Bonacina and Renzo Mongiardino for Bonacina 1889, complete the sophisticated ambiance. Odachi is a 48-seat, lobby-adjacent restaurant within Casa Brera, a Marriott hotel in Brera, which was a 1950s office building transformed by Interior Design Hall of Famer Patricia Urquiola. Serving Japanese-inspired dishes, Odachi’s design deliberately avoids Asian clichés. The sophisticated mustard colorway of Dedar’s Perfect Flower banquette upholstery is illuminated by custom opaline-glass pendant fixtures. Framed cast-stone architectural fragments by Spanish architect Marià Castelló, along with Urquiola’s own production pieces like her abstracted-floral Rooms collection wallpaper for Jannelli&Volpi and Oru chairs for Andreu World, create a unique and refined dining experience. #Milan #CulinaryDestinations #RestaurantDesign #InteriorDesign #GiorgiaLongoniStudio #JoyHerro #Dimorestudio #StudioUrquiola #MilaneseCuisine

Rome, often called the Eternal City, offers a blend of historical grandeur and contemporary flair, reflected in its diverse accommodation options. From opulent palazzos to modern urban hotels, the city caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets. This guide highlights 28 top hotels for 2026, considering their unique styles, amenities, and locations across Rome's vibrant neighborhoods. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, as summer can be intensely hot. Hotel de Russie, located in Campo Marzio, is a Rocco Forte property known for its elegant blend of Roman classicism and Art Deco design. It features 120 rooms and suites, a magnificent terraced courtyard garden, and exceptional service. Margutta 19, also in Campo Marzio, is an Expedia-listed suites-only hotel on the picturesque Via Margutta. Its interior design evokes post-war Italian elegance, complemented by a 24-hour concierge and a garden terrace for dining. The Corner Roma in San Saba offers beautifully designed, distinct rooms within an inordinately good-looking and keenly priced hotel. Its greenhouse-like restaurant and speakeasy-style cocktail bar are popular, and its location provides walkable access to key sights like the Colosseum. Villa Spalletti Trivelli in Monti is a historic mansion near the Trevi Fountain, boasting aristocratic heritage with 16th-century tapestries and original furniture. It includes a Roman bath-inspired spa and a modern rooftop terrace with jacuzzis. Mama Shelter Rome in Trionfale caters to fans of kitsch with its playful, retro design and affordable rates. It features unique color schemes, a winter garden bar, a Fifties-inspired pizzeria, and a rooftop bar overlooking St Peter’s Basilica. Hotel Santa Maria, an Expedia-listed property in Trastevere, provides a peaceful retreat within a bustling neighborhood. Formerly a convent, it offers serene, pastel-colored rooms overlooking a courtyard where breakfast is served. Villa Laetitia in Della Vittoria, designed by Anna Venturini Fendi, is housed in an Art Nouveau villa featuring frescoes, stuccowork, and contemporary art. It also houses the two-Michelin-starred Enoteca La Torre and offers bike rental. Piazza di Spagna 9, in Campo Marzio, occupies the third floor of a 15th-century palazzo, offering art-focused rooms with striking furniture designed by the owner. It is ideal for design-conscious couples and includes a two-person Turkish bath. citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina in Regola is an affordable urban hotel chain known for its functional, Scandi-inspired design, comfortable beds, and rooftop bar. Six Senses Rome in Pigna is an upscale hotel opened in 2023, emphasizing wellness and sustainability with travertine marble, Roman-themed cocktails, and a spa with traditional treatments and biohacking tools. Palm Gallery Hotel in Trieste-Salario is unique for its rooftop pool and Liberty-style villa architecture with Moroccan and Middle Eastern influences. Hotel Vilon, in Campo Marzio, is a tucked-away design hotel popular among high-net-worth individuals, offering views into the private garden of Palazzo Borghese and a bar-restaurant serving Italian classics. Villa Agrippina Gran Melia in Trastevere is a resort-style hotel with two outdoor pools, multiple restaurants, a kids' club, and a Clarins spa, with some rooms offering views of Vatican City. Hotel Stendhal in Campo Marzio, an Expedia-listed property, is ideal for families due to its central location and various room options, combining traditional elegance with contemporary boutique styles. Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, in Campo Marzio, underwent a full renovation in 2019, featuring gleaming white rooms, a champagne bar, and a rooftop restaurant with views of Villa Borghese and St Peter’s Basilica. G-Rough in Parione is a stylish ten-suite hotel with a stripped-back aesthetic, offering offbeat experiences and a gold-bricked bar. Palazzo Navona in Sant’Eustachio boasts an unbeatable location near the Pantheon and Roman Forum, with a panoramic rooftop and modern Italian interiors. The Fifteen Keys Hotel in Monti is a characterful hotel with 15 design-forward rooms, featuring parquet floors, exposed brickwork, and a leafy courtyard garden. Hoxton Roma in Trieste-Salario is a hip hotel with Italian marble and velvet banquettes, offering 192 rooms with a vintage-chic style and amenities like Cugino bakery and Elio restaurant. Hotel Hassler in Campo Marzio is a long-standing, luxurious hotel atop the Spanish Steps, offering unrivalled views and Michelin-starred dining, combining old-world charm with Art Deco updates. Hotel Eden, also in Campo Marzio, exudes cinematic glamour with pastoral frescoes, velvet divans, and marble, featuring a Michelin-starred restaurant and a spa. JK Place Rome, an intimate townhouse behind Via del Corso, offers a cool, gentleman’s club feel with bespoke Italian design, an all-day café, and proximity to the Spanish Steps. Portrait Rome in Campo Marzio is a suites-only hotel above the Ferragamo store on Via dei Condotti, featuring Florentine Michele Bonan's Fifties-era design, a panoramic terrace, and a dedicated lifestyle team. Palazzo Dama in Campo Marzio, a Liberty-style hotel on the Tiber, blends noble history with witty contemporary design by Antonio Giradi, featuring a coveted pool, rococo bar, and a nightclub. Hotel Maalot in Campo Marzio, by the Trevi Fountain, is housed in a grand palazzo and features a peacockish British style, low-lit downstairs spaces, a palm-filled restaurant with a glass ceiling, and rooms with Art Deco pieces. DOM Hotel in Regola, designed by Antonio Girardi, is a 16th-century palazzo once a monastery, featuring a 'virile Roman gothic' aesthetic with noirish lighting, crushed velvets, and a bar and restaurant. Hotel de la Ville in Campo Marzio, a second grand hotel by Sir Rocco Forte, is an 18th-century palazzo on the Spanish Steps, featuring opulent decor inspired by the Grand Tour, a thermal spa, and rooftop views. Fendi Private Suites in Campo Marzio offers seven haute-couture pieds-à-terre above the Fendi flagship outlet, featuring pieces by renowned designers, limited-edition Fendi art, and a Japanese restaurant, with staff known for their connections. This comprehensive selection ensures that travelers can find the perfect Roman accommodation to suit their preferences for luxury, style, and location. #RomeHotels #LuxuryTravel #BoutiqueHotels #HotelDesign #ItalianHospitality #TravelGuide #EuropeanTravel #HistoricHotels

La Pergola, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome, operates atop the Rome Cavalieri hotel, offering a luxurious dining experience. Helmed by German chef Heinz Beck, maître d’ Simone Pinoli, and sommelier Marco Reitano for 23 years, the restaurant is known for its opulent environment and personalized service. Before entering the dining area, guests wait in the hotel lobby, which is adorned with an impressive art collection, including works by Bertel Thorvaldsen, Andy Warhol, and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. The restaurant aims to create an exclusive and memorable atmosphere for its patrons. One unique aspect of La Pergola's service is the personalized, hand-embroidered napkins with guests' initials in gold thread, reserved for regular and favored clients. These napkins are kept in a special wooden chest and are highly coveted. The restaurant staff, particularly Pinoli and Reitano, are adept at making guests feel at ease, despite the establishment's high-end nature. This level of personalized attention contributes significantly to the overall dining experience, distinguishing La Pergola from other luxury restaurants. The dining experience begins with an extensive water list, featuring 55 different types, including rare and historically significant options like Chateldon, King Louis XIV's favorite, and Svalbardi, water extracted from 40,000-year-old icebergs. The article highlights a personal choice of Magma, a naturally bubbly water from below the earth’s crust, served at the end of the meal for digestion, which the author describes as the best water ever consumed. This detailed water selection underscores the restaurant's commitment to offering unique and extravagant choices. Beyond beverages, the food at La Pergola is equally remarkable. A standout dish mentioned is the blended foie gras with red berries, presented as a vibrant pink and luxurious take on the classic French delicacy. The restaurant staff goes to extraordinary lengths to accommodate guests' requests, exemplified by a waiter dressing as a gladiator for a child’s entertainment. La Pergola also maintains a wardrobe of single-breasted navy blazers in various sizes for guests who may arrive without appropriate attire, ensuring that the dress code is always met. During the pandemic, when reading glasses could not be shared, the restaurant introduced specialized reading lamps to make menu text clearer. To adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining its high standards, La Pergola implemented several adjustments. Menus became personalized takeaways, and wine lists transitioned to a digital format, with physical copies available upon request, accompanied by gloves. The sommelier offers extensive guidance through the 3,500-option wine menu, which includes both Italian and international selections, many of which are exclusive to the restaurant. The beverage service extends to a dedicated Cigar Room, offering a selection of cigars, 15 types of tea and coffee, plush seating, and original artworks. The tea service is particularly elaborate, featuring a trolley of fresh plants and flowers infused in a samovar once owned by Tzar Alexander I of Russia. The infusion is then enhanced with liquid nitrogen for dramatic effect and personalized with essential oils. The coffee service is equally opulent, with beans from exotic locations like Mount Everest and Kopi Luwak, known for being processed by Asian palm civets. The ethical concerns surrounding Kopi Luwak production, particularly civet welfare, are acknowledged. The restaurant also caters to lavish private events, such as a €35,000 birthday party where a band played 1980s Sanremo songs, culminating in a private fireworks display over Rome. These offerings illustrate La Pergola's dedication to providing an unparalleled and highly customized luxury experience. #LaPergola #MichelinStarred #FineDining #RomeRestaurants #LuxuryExperience #HeinzBeck #Sommelier #MaîtreD #ExtravagantPerks

The Calanques National Park, stretching between Marseille and Cassis, is renowned for its turquoise coves and dramatic limestone cliffs, attracting significant tourist attention. However, north of Marseille, the less-explored Côte Bleue offers a more intimate coastal experience with its charming fishing villages and picturesque coves carved into the limestone hills. This region, also known as the "Blue Coast," features hiking trails connecting secluded ports and a scenic commuter train, the Train de Côte Bleue, which traverses 18 viaducts between seven villages. Despite the arrival of the commuter train in 1915, marked by heritage-tiled stations, the Côte Bleue largely remained a hidden gem, frequented primarily by local fishermen and residents, while other Marseillais often favored the more popular Cassis and Bandol. Interest in the Côte Bleue has grown, with some attributing this to Marseille's designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2013. A significant draw is La Pergola, a restaurant situated in Niolon, a cove on the Côte Bleue offering panoramic views of Marseille. Established in 1958, La Pergola was once a clandestine retreat but had, in recent years, become known for its stunning location rather than its cuisine. This changed in 2016 when Joaquim and Beatrice Piedade took ownership. The couple, experienced restaurateurs, revitalized the establishment while preserving its relaxed atmosphere. They refurbished the interior and the shaded terrace, from which the restaurant derives its name, and Chef Joaquim crafted a menu focused on fresh fish and local ingredients, prioritizing flavor over elaborate culinary techniques. La Pergola is distinguished by its customer-centric service, including all-day operating hours, a rarity in France. This approach has cultivated a loyal clientele of locals and visitors from Marseille and Aix. Chef Joaquim Piedade, who initially pursued accounting, transitioned to the culinary world, driven by a desire for the camaraderie he observed in local eateries. His extensive career spans three decades, encompassing training with a Michelin-starred chef, opening several restaurants in France, Île de Maurice, and Portugal, and working for major French culinary conglomerates. These diverse experiences provided him with comprehensive knowledge of both kitchen operations and front-of-house management. Drawing on his heritage as the descendant of Portuguese fishermen, Joaquim is dedicated to sourcing high-quality fish. He collaborates with Le Chalutier, a father-son fish merchant in Martigues, for a variety of fresh seafood, including sea bass, sea bream, John Dory, and flounder, and also purchases smaller catches from independent fishermen. The restaurant processes approximately 600 kg of fish weekly. Such fresh ingredients necessitate simple preparation, typically involving olive oil, salt, and fennel seeds, cooked on lava-rock grills. Seasonal specialties include swordfish, which Joaquim sources from larger, older specimens to support sustainable fishing practices. This swordfish is prepared either seared or smoked gravlax-style with beech wood, served with olive oil, grapefruit, and cornflower petals. Other menu highlights include meticulously prepared cuttlefish (sepia), frozen, cooked sous-vide, and seared on a plancha to achieve exceptional tenderness, served whole rather than in chopped pieces. Traditional Marseille dishes such as panisses (chickpea fritters), pieds et pacquets (stewed lamb's feet and tripe), and bourride (aioli-scented seafood stew) are also featured. A creative dessert, the savon de Marseille, offers edible “soaps” made from olive oil, butter, sugar, and hazelnuts, resembling decadent raw sugar cookie dough. Joaquim's accras (salt-cod fritters), based on his Portuguese mother’s recipe, are a nod to his family history and are served in generous portions, reflecting his upbringing. His three-part restaurant philosophy emphasizes prioritizing the client, maintaining meticulous organization and food safety, and fostering a passion for the work. His son, Max, manages the wine and spirits, and his daughter, Cassandre, assists with service, both embodying the family’s dedication to hospitality. Visitors to La Pergola can enhance their experience with a pre- or post-meal swim in Niolon's port or a walk along the Sentier de Douanier to the Calanque du Jonquier. #MarseilleCuisine #CôteBleue #LaPergolaRestaurant #FrenchSeafood #CulinaryTravel #MediterraneanCoast #SustainableFishing #FamilyBusiness

The article explores the allure of the Côte Bleue, a less-traveled coastal area north of Marseille, contrasting it with the more famous Calanques National Park. While the Calanques are renowned for their dramatic turquoise coves and limestone cliffs, the Côte Bleue offers a more intimate experience with its charming fishing villages nestled in blue coves, seemingly carved into the limestone hills. These secluded ports are connected by hiking trails, or travelers can opt for the scenic Train de Côte Bleue, which passes over 18 viaducts between seven villages. Despite the commuter train’s arrival in 1915, the Côte Bleue has maintained a low profile, historically favored by local fishermen over the flashier destinations like Cassis and Bandol. However, its appeal has grown, partly attributed to Marseille’s status as the European Capital of Culture in 2013, and significantly, to the revitalization of La Pergola restaurant. La Pergola, situated in Niolon with a prime view of Marseille, has been a local establishment since 1958. It transitioned from a spot for Marseille’s elite to a restaurant known more for its view than its cuisine. This changed in 2016 when Joaquim and Beatrice Piedade took over. The restaurateurs, drawn to the restaurant’s potential, undertook a complete renovation while preserving its relaxed atmosphere. They refurbished the interior and the restaurant’s namesake shaded terrace, creatively shaping the thick vines to frame the coastal views. Chef Joaquim developed a menu focused on fresh fish and local flavors, prioritizing delicious food over complex culinary techniques. A distinguishing feature of La Pergola is its warm and professional customer service, characterized by an all-day operational model, which is uncommon in France. This flexibility caters to a diverse clientele, from locals enjoying breakfast to tourists having celebratory dinners, and hikers stopping for refreshments. The restaurant boasts a loyal customer base, comprising locals, Marseillais, and Aixois, underscoring its success in building community and consistent quality. Joaquim Piedade's journey to becoming a chef was unconventional; originally an accountant, he was inspired by the camaraderie he witnessed in a local snack bar. He pursued a hands-on culinary education, working various jobs over three decades, including training with a Michelin-starred chef, opening multiple restaurants, and gaining experience in large French culinary conglomerates. Joaquim's Portuguese heritage, particularly his family’s history of fishing, fuels his passion for sourcing the freshest fish. He collaborates closely with Le Chalutier, a father-son fish merchant in Martigues, who supplies a variety of fish like sea bass, sea bream, John Dory, and turbot, and also acquires smaller catches from independent fishermen. Joaquim’s ability to source about 600 kg of fish weekly highlights his commitment to quality ingredients, which are then simply prepared with olive oil, salt, and fennel seeds on lava-rock grills. The menu features seasonal specialties, such as sustainable swordfish, prepared either as seared steaks or gravlax-style smoked slices with olive oil, grapefruit, and cornflower petals. The thoughtful preparation extends to dishes like seared cuttlefish, frozen and cooked sous-vide before being pan-seared to achieve an exceptionally succulent texture. La Pergola’s menu also pays homage to Marseille classics, including *panisses* (chickpea fritters), *pieds et pacquets* (a stew of lamb’s feet and tripe), and *bourride* (aïoli-scented seafood stew). A unique dessert is the *savon de Marseille*, an edible soap made of olive oil, butter, sugar, and hazelnuts, reminiscent of a decadent raw sugar cookie dough. The restaurant also features Joaquim’s mother’s recipe for salt-cod fritters, *accras*, acknowledging their Portuguese origin and generous portion sizes. Joaquim’s operational philosophy is structured around three core principles: client-first service, meticulous thoroughness in operations, and a genuine love for one’s work. The Piedade family, including their son Max and daughter Cassandre, actively contributes to the restaurant's success, embodying the restaurant's values of hospitality and dedication. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding Niolon area, perhaps taking a pre- or post-meal swim in the secluded coves or hiking the Sentier de Douanier to the beautiful Calanque du Jonquier, further enhancing the coastal dining experience at La Pergola. #Marseille #CôteBleue #LaPergola #FrenchCuisine #SeafoodRestaurant #Niolon #CoastalDining #FamilyBusiness #SustainableFishing