Ciao, my fabulous fellow travelers! ✨ If you’ve spent the day meandering through Rome’s cobbled streets, marveling at Bernini fountains and climbing the Spanish Steps, chances are you’ll be craving something comforting, indulgent, and unmistakably Roman. Enter: Unik Roma, a restaurant that surprised me in all the best ways and left my heart (and belly) full.
Located just a short stroll from Piazza di Spagna, Unik blends modern elegance with warm, down-to-earth Roman hospitality. I stumbled upon it serendipitously late one evening, and it turned out to be one of my most memorable meals in the Eternal City.
🕯 First Impressions: Chic Yet Inviting
From the moment we stepped in, Unik felt… well, unique. The restaurant has this beautifully understated decor: soft lighting, contemporary lines, subtle earth tones, and just the right hint of luxe. It’s stylish without being showy, ideal for a romantic dinner, a cozy evening with friends, or a post-sightseeing splurge.
What struck me most, though, was the genuinely warm welcome. Despite arriving about 30 minutes before closing, the manager greeted us with grace and enthusiasm. There was absolutely no rush, no side-eyes, just smiles and a sincere, “You’re very welcome.” In a world of rushed service and “kitchen’s closed,” this kind of reception is rare. And honestly? It set the tone for the entire evening.
🍷 What We Ordered: The Pasta Trilogy of My Dreams
When in Rome, pasta is practically a love language, and at Unik, I fell head over heels. We ordered the Pasta Trilogy, a tasting experience of three classic Roman dishes, each one more divine than the last:
1️⃣ Cacio e Pepe: Creamy, peppery perfection. The texture was luscious, the Pecorino Romano bold and tangy, and the black pepper sang through every bite. So simple. So spectacular.
2️⃣ Carbonara: This was the silkiest carbonara I’ve ever tasted. Rich egg yolk emulsion, crispy guanciale, just enough pecorino bite. No cream here, just authenticity. It was indulgent without being heavy.
3️⃣ Amatriciana: A comforting, flavorful tomato-based pasta with guanciale and pecorino. It had a balanced acidity and a savory depth that made it the perfect finish to the trio.
Each dish came in a petite portion, just enough to savor the flavors without feeling overwhelmed. Paired with a glass of Italian red and soft evening chatter around us, it was the ultimate Roman dining experience.
💫 The Service: Late-Night Kindness That Left a Mark
I truly can’t say enough about the staff at Unik. From start to finish, they were attentive, kind, and knowledgeable without ever being intrusive. Our server helped us select wine with enthusiasm and answered every foodie question I threw at him. And again, that small act of letting us in close to closing time, with no pressure to rush, spoke volumes. It’s these moments that make a place memorable. 💛
📍 Location & Essentials
- 📌 Address: Via della Croce, 18, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
- 🚶 Nearby: Just steps from the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna
- 🕰 Hours: Usually open for lunch and dinner (check current hours online or on Google Maps)
- 💳 Price Range: $$ – $$$ (mid to upscale, but worth every euro)
- 📱 Reservation: Recommended, especially for dinner
Final Thoughts
Rome is a city that surprises you when you least expect it, and Unik is one of those surprises. Tucked behind the famous Spanish Steps, it’s an oasis of flavor, style, and heartfelt service.
If you’re seeking a soulful dinner spot after a long day of sightseeing, Unik will welcome you like family and feed you like royalty. Whether you’re a pasta purist or simply curious to try the city’s most beloved dishes in one sitting, this place will leave you smiling long after the last bite.
xoxo,
Bubbly 💕
