Babington’s English Tea Room
A British oasis in the busy centre of Rome, Babingtons tea room feels like a world of its own.
Going to Babington’s is definitely a treat, not only because of its exhorbitant prices but also because it feels like stepping back in time.
The menu is partially seasonal, and not too large, but every single dish is incredibly good, from high tea to gazpacho and their special negrino. Food at Babington’s is always made from incredibly fresh ingredients, and the quality is undeniably high.
However, while the food’s exceptional, the prices really are extreme. A small bottle of water is €5, and don’t even think about asking for tap water. They won’t give it to you, citing something about “not being able to control the quality of the water.” This in Rome, a city famous for the quality of its tap water.
We’re divided about Babington’s at Food in Rome. Rob thinks this kind of pricing feels a little cynical, and that Babington’s is something of a reverse tourist trap, where Italians buy phony, over-priced Englishness. Petulia believes that Babington’s has some of the best food in Rome, and if you can see past the high numbers on the bill, Babington’s is a great place to go to share a meal or a pot of tea with friends.