Rick Steves Monti/Rome Restaurants

HI Tim,
I am glad you had a chance to explore the Monti district.

Monti has long been a open secret in Rome. Over the past decade it has moved from a sleepy village within the city to a sleek destination. It was interesting to see the transformation unfold before my eyes. I started renting apartments in Monti about 15 years ago because that was a pretty cheap part of Rome, compared to other districts. I could get a little apartment for about 30 euro a night, for up to two people. Now those same apartments are lived in by people who want to be in the "happening" part of town.

The sense of community continues to feel strong there; last summer the night the road around the Colosseo was closed, the neighborhood was one street party that lasted long into the night. Right outside my window there was a group of opera singers performing, with crowds everywhere!

As much as I do like the Monti district (transport to and from there is wonderful) it has changed. I now look at Pigneto for rentals, but they are few and far between!

The best thing about "Monti" is that it is less crowded during the peak of travel season. There are good restaurants all over Rome regardless of the district, and even in more crowded areas, quiet side streets offer great opportunities. We had good food in Rick's new recommended area, but discovered our own 'finds' too.

I ran across the link to his 2014 Monti / Rome .PDF on this page:

http://blog.ricksteves.com/?p=11426