Enoteca Cul De Sac
Cul de Sac is a great enoteca with a wide selection of wines and some tasty food, close to Piazza Navona.
Eating so close to Piazza Navona, right in the middle of the tourist centre, can be tricky, but Cul De Sac is definitely a safe bet. Many of our friends love it for various reasons: because of the quaint and authentic atmosphere; because of the incredible wine selection (they claim to have over 1500 different bottles of wine, grappa, champagne, etc.); and most of all because for the flavourful dishes, which can satisfy the need for a light dinner or a heartier meal. The late closing (half past midnight) also makes it handy for an after-dinner drink.
Some selections from the menu include pasta dishes like strozzapreti alla Siciliana (with tomato and aubergine / eggplant), along with plates of cheese and cold cuts, both Italian and imported.
Last time we were at Cul De Sac, Petulia had caprino caldo (goat’s cheese warmed up with a coating of herbs and a selection of vegetables, pictured) and Rob had a decent lasagna. Along with bread, mineral water, and two glasses of wine, the total bill came to €24.
Next time, we’ll try the desserts…
Pasquino, the Talking Statue
Incidentally, Piazza di Pasquino takes its name from the rather beaten-up statue that stands across the road from Enoteca Cul De Sac. Pasquino, as he’s called, is one of Rome’s “talking statues”: for the last 500 years, the citizens of Rome have been posting their complaints about the city—and other citizens—on his torso and plinth.