Rome Local Secrets

As an organization that sends thousands of students abroad each year, CEA has captured a list of local secrets - a collection of discoveries from our students, resident staff, as well as other locals - that make this city unique. We hope you will find the information helpful and, at the very least, an interesting read.

Obika Mozzarella Bar

In the mood for some Italian main dishes? Try the “Obika Mozzarella Bar," a bar and restaurant dedicated to mozzarella made in 100 different ways. Not only is the food fantastic here, but it is a very stylish atmosphere too! Be prepared for a gigantic meal (American-sized portions) with leftovers guaranteed! If you are in the mood for a lighter meal, go there for lunch instead of dinner because the portions are not as big! If you like cheese, don’t miss a great opportunity to have an excellent meal with the best mozzarella ever!

Art Hotel

If you like contemporary art, you must go visit the Art Hotel, located on one of the most picturesque streets in Rome - Via Margotta. This hotel is right by the Spanish Steps, which makes for a view of beautiful scenery from your hotel room! The entire hotel is a work of contemporary art, from the unique rooms to the bright modern tables at the restaurant in the hotel. Even the hallways are products of art, with bright colors designated for each hallway. If you would like to stay at the hotel, you can login to their Web site at: http://www.hotelartrome.com/index.htm to check out the pricing and room availability. If you’d like a tour only, you can book an appointment to view the hotel with the concierge, who himself has been constructed a work of art because he stands in a plastic, egg-shaped pod.

News Café

While in Rome, you must head to the “News Café," located on the Via della Stamperis. This is an adorable, casual cafe near the Trevi Fountain, and it is great for breakfast and lunch. Here you can find newspapers and satellite news from all over the world, and sip your coffee while you relax and catch up!

Sweet Stops

Italy is world-renowned for pastas and authentic Italian dishes; however, it is also known for its desserts! Italian gelato is a local favorite, and every tourist must try some while in Italy. There is a great place near the Vatican, called “Old Bridge,” that offers the best Italian gelato ever! They have many different flavors, so definitely make a stop there after sightseeing at the Vatican for a refreshing treat! Another place to check out is “Fedom Cioccolate e Vino," which is on the Vicolo del Cinque, and here you can taste handmade Italian chocolate! This is not only a treat for you, but it is also a great gift for your family and friends! They will definitely thank you after trying this chocolate - hmmm. One other dessert shop to stop at while in Rome is “La Dolce Roma," which is an amazing pastry shop where you can find cakes, breads and other desserts from Italy, America and Austria. A great bonus about this place is that they are open all hours of the night, so you can stop by and get a bagel or a cookie after a night out on the town.