Nestled in the historic heart of Rome at Via dei Banchi Vecchi 129/a, Il Pagliaccio offers an unforgettable high-end dining experience that captivates food lovers and trend-savvy travelers alike. This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its creative Mediterranean dishes served in a chic, bare-brick dining room that exudes elegance and intimacy. Whether you’re a passionate foodie or a visitor seeking exceptional cuisine in Rome, Il Pagliaccio promises a journey of taste and artistry.
At Il Pagliaccio, the 10-course tasting menus — especially the acclaimed “Circus” and “Parallels” experiences — showcase a masterful fusion of Italian and Asian flavors. Each dish is a small masterpiece, carefully crafted to deliver a symphony of intricate tastes. Highlights include the velvety risotto paired with onion ice cream and innovative takes on duck and tortella. These culinary delights are often paired with thoughtfully selected wines from an impressive international list, enhancing every bite and elevating the overall experience.
From the warm welcome by Chef Anthony Genovese himself to the attentive and professional staff, every aspect of your visit is handled with grace and enthusiasm. Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable team who explain the story behind each dish with radiant smiles and bright eyes. The intimate setting, without outdoor seating or live music distractions, allows diners to fully immerse themselves in the gastronomic journey with impeccable service at every turn.
Il Pagliaccio is open Tuesday evenings and Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, with a schedule that caters perfectly to a leisurely meal. Due to its popularity and limited seating, making a reservation is highly recommended to guarantee your spot at this gastronomic destination. Expect to invest in a premium dining experience, with tasting menus priced at around $170 per person and wine pairings available for an additional $50. Note that the restaurant does not offer takeout or delivery, focusing on providing the best dine-in experience possible.
- What are the operating hours of Il Pagliaccio? Il Pagliaccio operates on Tuesday from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM; Wednesday to Saturday from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM; and is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- Is a reservation required at Il Pagliaccio? Yes, reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and limited seating.
- What is the price range of the tasting menus? The tasting menus are priced at $170 per person, with wine pairings available for an additional $50.
The sentiment among visitors to Il Pagliaccio is overwhelmingly positive. Food enthusiasts applaud the innovative flavor combinations and the chance to savor a culinary journey that is both imaginative and precise. While some note the high price point, the consensus is that the superb quality, elegant ambiance, and gracious service justify the investment. For those seeking a sophisticated and memorable dining experience in Rome, Il Pagliaccio stands out as a top choice that tantalizes the palate and delights the senses.
Nestled in the historic Via dei Banchi Vecchi in Rome, Il Pagliaccio stands as a beacon of culinary innovation and excellence, captivating discerning diners since its inception.
Il Pagliaccio was established in 2003 by the visionary Chef Anthony Genovese. From the outset, the restaurant set out to craft a unique dining experience by blending Mediterranean flavors with subtle oriental influences, creating an imaginative and refined culinary journey.
In a remarkable journey of culinary excellence, Il Pagliaccio achieved a significant milestone in 2016 when it was awarded its second Michelin star. This prestigious recognition solidified its position as Rome’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant, attracting food enthusiasts, gourmets, and travelers seeking unforgettable gastronomic adventures.
Il Pagliaccio invites guests to indulge in meticulously crafted dishes that showcase a symphony of Mediterranean creativity infused with Asian nuances. Diners can expect innovative tasting menus such as the acclaimed 10-course "Circus" or the elaborate 16-plate "Parallels" experience, each paired thoughtfully with exquisite wines from around the world.
- Founding year - 2003, marking the birth of a culinary landmark in Rome.
- Michelin stars - Earned its second Michelin star in 2016, a rare honor in the Eternal City.
- Cuisine style - A creative fusion of Mediterranean and oriental flavors delivering an innovative gastronomic journey.
Il Pagliaccio continues to enchant visitors with its chic, bare-brick dining room that sets the perfect backdrop for an evening of culinary artistry and impeccable service. Whether you are a passionate foodie, a seasoned traveler, or a local looking for an exceptional dining experience, this restaurant promises an unforgettable taste of Rome’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
Nestled in the heart of Rome at Via dei Banchi Vecchi, Il Pagliaccio stands out as a beacon of innovative Mediterranean cuisine. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an elegant and intimate dining experience that captivates food lovers seeking creative flavor journeys. Its chic, bare-brick dining room sets the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable meal.
Guests rave about the innovative tasting menus, such as the renowned 10-course "Circus" menu that takes diners on a symphonic exploration of flavors. The unique fusion of Italian and Asian influences creates dishes that surprise and delight with intricate taste notes and artistic presentation. Service is consistently described as highly professional, attentive, and gracious, contributing to a truly memorable evening.
- Innovative tasting menus that showcase unique flavor combinations and artistic plating.
- Attentive and professional service creates a welcoming and refined atmosphere.
- Elegant and intimate ambiance makes it ideal for special occasions or romantic dinners.
- Michelin-starred recognition guarantees a high standard of culinary excellence.
While Il Pagliaccio offers a remarkable dining experience, several factors may influence your visit. The price point is on the higher side, reflecting the restaurant's Michelin status and inventive cuisine. Seating is limited due to the intimate setting, so reservations are essential and often need to be made well in advance to secure a table. Additionally, some diners may find certain dishes require an open mind due to adventurous flavor pairings.
- High price point may not suit all budgets.
- Limited seating requires early reservations.
- Reservations required well in advance to secure a spot at this popular venue.
Il Pagliaccio is a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts seeking a refined and innovative dining experience in Rome. Its blend of elegant ambiance, artistic cuisine, and impeccable service earns it a distinguished place among the city's top restaurants. While the higher cost and booking necessities require planning, the rewards of a memorable gastronomic journey make it well worth the effort.
