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Restaurant Recomendations in Rome, Paris & London

My husband and I are travelling to Rome, Monterosso al Mare, Paris & London from 8/29/2013 - 9/21/2013. We are looking for restaurant, gelato, and bar/pub recomendations that are neither super touristy nor will break the bank. We know all of these places are expensive, and can do a couple of pricier places in all these cities, but need ideas for places for lunch/dinner with quality food. Thanks in advance!
Melissa

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392 posts

In Rome, Trattoria der Pallaro. Our favorite meal ever. I sprained my ankle in Rome and skipped a meal because of the shock, so that's my only strong food memory. In London, our best meal last year was pricey (honeymoon), but we found a pie and mash chain called Mother Mash that we really loved having lunch at. There is one by Carnaby Street, but there are a couple of others. And almost any Indian food you get in London will be reasonably priced and the best Indian you've ever had. We just read reviews of what was close to our hotel and had an excellent meal. Most of the places I ate in Paris were good but not particularly memorable. I hd a good meal across the street from the fancy La Tour d'Argent, but i forget the name--seemed like a neighborhood spot despite is proximity to the Seine. The best stuff I had there was croissants, bread, cheese, and crepes. Berthillon ice cream is touristy but awesome anyway, check out Dalloyau for pastry. Many consider it the best in Paris. There are multiple locations.

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11851 posts

I made a list just for this purpose in Rome. You can find it here. A real bargain for lunch is to go to almost any bar (cafe) and get a panini. They will warm it for you on a little grill, and you can take it to go ( portar via) or eat it there if there are tables. Not far from the American Embassy and close to Villa Borghese is a cute bar called Cafè Mozart. If you are nearby it is worth a lunch stop. Signora Carla will welcome you and has tables. Her panini are inexpensive and good, but limited selection. There is also a Tavolo Caldo here, frequented by local workers, for a more substantial lunch. (Closed at night.) There are gems like this all over the city. Just pop in and see what the sandwich case looks like. Usually someone will be able to tell you in English what's in a particular sandwich. Some of the best are all vegetable, grilled, seasoned with olive oil, served simply or sometimes with just some cheese. Yummy! Avoid the food-wagons. No idea how long those sandwiches have been sitting there.... Peppy's Cafe in Piazza Barberini isn't bad, and has a good selection of sandwiches. Kind of rude service, but it's a madhouse.

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32404 posts

Melissa, I'd have to dig through my notes for a complete list, but some that come to mind in each location..... > Rome - one that comes to mind is Trattoria Antica Boheme (Via Napoli 4, near Termini). > Monterosso - some of my favourites are Cantina di Miky (new town - try the Pesto Lasagna), L'Alta Marea, Belvedere and Il Carrugio (old town - try Trofie al Pesto). > London - no shortage of good restaurants there! You might try Santini (29 Ebury Street - great Italian food but not cheap) or Jamie Oliver's Fifteen (15 Westland Place). Happy travels!

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23 posts

Thank you to everyone who posted a reply to my inquiry. I will definitely check into as many of these places as I can!
Melissa

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1501 posts

I stay near the Vatican in the Prati neighborhood. Best (and most generous serving) of gelato is almost across the street from the Vatican Museum,
"Old Bridge." There's usually a line of students -- they know the value! Don't know the exact address, but you can get it on Trip Advisor

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29 posts

Rome: Osteria Fortunata (Campo di Fiori area) Best Carbonara I had..Family owned and operated.. loved it.. it was recommended by a friend and I'm glad to pass on the recommendation. Jim

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23 posts

Definitely going to check out the gelateria and the restaurant for Carbonara! Carbonara is my husband's favorite. Thanks again to everyone who took the time to respond! Melissa