Ciao from the top of the Spanish Steps! 🌸 Rome has no shortage of magical moments, but dinner at Salone Eva at the iconic Hassler Hotel is one that lingers in memory long after the plates are cleared. Tucked inside one of the city’s most refined hotels, perched right above the Spanish Steps, Salone Eva is an intimate, elegant restaurant that effortlessly blends gourmet Roman cuisine with timeless Italian charm.
I began my evening at Carmen’s Bar, the hotel’s stylish lounge. While waiting for my table, I sipped on a sparkling Bellini made with fragrant peach purée, followed by a crisp Gin and Tonic. The ambiance here is exquisite: golden tones, marble finishes, soft lighting, and whispers of jazz floating in the background. The perfect aperitivo to set the tone.
🍷 The Dinner Experience
Once seated at Salone Eva, I was instantly enchanted by the beautifully set tables, the refined yet cozy atmosphere, and the attentive staff who made me feel completely at home.
🧀 Antipasti: We started with the Tagliere di salumi, a beautifully arranged charcuterie board featuring a variety of Italian cured meats, paired with walnuts, berries, and artisanal bread. It was a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and earthy flavors, served with grace and flair.
🥗 Verdure: Next came a plate of grilled vegetables, delicately dressed with sun-dried tomato oil and fennel, creating a fresh and fragrant bite with every forkful. The presentation was elegant – colorful ribbons of zucchini and delicious mushrooms added vibrancy to the table. Each element was lightly charred and tender, striking the right balance between simplicity and refinement.
🍕 Pinsa Perfection: The Roman-style pinsa, topped with mortadella and stracciatella, was an unexpected delight. The dough was airy with a slight crisp, and the creamy stracciatella paired beautifully with the delicate, nutty flavor of mortadella. It was indulgent yet balanced, showcasing the kitchen’s creativity and finesse.
🍝 Pasta Time: I couldn’t resist trying the Mezze Maniche all’Amatriciana dell’Hassler, a rich and hearty version of the classic Roman dish. Featuring aromatic black pepper, crispy guanciale, and Pecorino Romano D.O.P., it was comfort food elevated to fine dining. The sauce clung perfectly to the pasta, and the portion was generous without being overwhelming.
🍷 The Wine: I paired everything with a glass (okay, maybe two) of Chianti Classico Peppoli Fontodi, a beautiful red with velvety tannins, bright cherry notes, and just enough spice to complement the bold flavors on the table. It was the perfect Roman wine for a Roman evening.
🎨 Atmosphere & Service
Salone Eva’s decor is classic and regal, with warm red hues, plush fabrics, elegant chandeliers, and Roman-inspired artwork that reflect the hotel’s heritage. The space feels like a step into another era, intimate, luxurious, and full of quiet charm. Every detail, from the polished silverware to the glow of candlelight, contributes to an ambiance that’s both timeless and inviting.
The service was outstanding. From the warm welcome at the entrance to the attentive sommelier and kind servers, every team member made the evening feel special. Professional yet genuinely friendly, the staff struck the perfect balance of elegance and ease. Dining here feels less like a meal, more like an experience carefully crafted with care and finesse.
📍 Practical Info
- 📍 Location: Hassler Roma, Piazza Trinità dei Monti, 6, Rome, Italy
- 👗 Dress Code: Smart casual to elegant
- ⏰ Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations highly recommended. Check the official website for up-to-date seasonal hours and menus.
Final Reflections
Dining at Salone Eva isn’t just about food, it’s about stepping into a moment. It’s elegance without pretension, flavor without excess, and timelessness without fuss. Whether you begin with cocktails at Carmen’s Bar or end your evening with a stroll down the Spanish Steps under the stars, the experience is pure Roman romance.
It’s one of those rare places that makes you feel like you’re in a Fellini film: glamorous, glowing, and absolutely in love with life.
xoxo,
Bubbly🍷🌸
