Al Simeto

A simple Italian restaurant probably best for their pastas. The décor was quaint and casual with its red and white checked tablecloths and small television at the front. The place itself looked quite rustic with its arched frames and bricked tiled ceilings.
Staff were incredibly friendly and hospitable. They even allowed to enter half an hour before opening time so we can escape from the rain and let us sit at our table before they were ready to serve us.
Sadly that day the oven was broken so never got to try their pizzas which I have heard good things about it.
They started our meal by handing over some complimentary bread. A little dense and the crust was a little hard. But being free I’m not complaining.
We ordered the following:
Caprese
This was lovely and fresh. The tomato carried a lot of umami, thickly slice to give more moisture and flavour in each piece. It paired so well with the fresh milky mozzarella. Not the creamiest I’ve had not still very good.
Bruschetta al Pomodoro
This was so satisfying. Once again the tomatoes carried a lot of umami and this time the addition of the olive oil and garlic added extra depth to the flavour. The bread soaking up all the juices and garlic became soft and doughy making it great base to enjoy with the lovely chopped tomatoes.
Risotto ball
This was very well constructed with its thin breadcrumb batter. The rice was a bit dense but the stretchy cheese and rich tomato flavour and well seasoning made up for it
Antipasto verda
This was truly delicious and really helped neutralise all the oiliness and heaviness of all the pasta and pizza we’ve been eating. A plate of simple boiled spinach, fried potatoes, grilled courgettes and zucchini were all perfectly cooked, seasoned lightly and with a simple dressing of olive oil.
Ravioli al Pomodoro Cremolati
This was reasonable. Not very generous with the filling per piece but the pasta was al dente and the creamy ricotta cheese and spinach filling delivered enough flavour. The sauce was pleasant being creamy and thick and the fresh Parmesan cheese gave it depth and richness
Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe
A bit on the salty side. But I still appreciated the simplicity of it, mainly pecorino cheese and black pepper. I believe that way you could really appreciate the freshness of the pasta and the al dente texture.
Tagliata Ruculo e Parmigiana
Sadly the beef wasn’t the highest of quality. It was dry and grainy, not the sweetest of flavour either. But at least it was cooked well and tender pink. The Parmesan and rocket helped provide some of the lost flavours.
Tiramisu
Nothing fancy or amazing. The sponge didn’t break away easily against the spoon so separately from the rest of the cheese. But that slight chewiness that made it unbreakable gave it a very satisfying texture to enjoy. Flavours were balanced and lovely and creamy in texture. Ren licked the plate clean.
Although food wasn’t spectacular, prices reflected on this and was very reasonable. It was within a good value budget. The place was filled with locals, from group meetings to solo diners. That itself gave the place more charm. A good reliable restaurant.

Nous avons dîné pour notre première vraie soirée romaine dans un tout petit restaurant situé à seulement 3 arrêts de bus de notre hôtel.
Un détail qui prouve l’authenticité de cet endroit?! Pas un seul touriste! Entourées simplement d’italiens qui semblent être habitués du lieu.
Deliciosso!
Une entrée composée de deux bruschettas à partager pour seulement 3 euros!
Un primi de pasta qui restera le seul plat du repas, les quantités étant largement suffisantes pour être repue !
Un dessert à partager à deux, une douce et citronnée crème caramel.
Il conto?! Seulement 15,50 euros par personne avec une demi bouteille de vin comprise!
Bön marché et tout simplement bon!

This place was closed for renovations and should update their website to reflect this information. Found a great restaurant around the corner on Via Po called Hosteria Po. Best meal we’ve had so far in Rome.

This place is incredible. By far the best pasta I had while I was in Rome. If my hotel was closer I would have gone twice. You can’t go wrong here.