Finding the Rome-ance

Rome, the eternal city, is widely known for its beautiful architecture, deep history, and mind-blowing food. It also has been characterized as one of the most romantic cities in the world. While some couples believe the best way to keep the romance alive is through sappy cards, fresh flowers, and candles, Chris and I have come to learn that the best way keep your love eternal is to feed each other. Very well.

Our romantic-partners are sometimes misled into thinking that all women are about flowers, hearts, and love notes. While all of those things are great, nothing makes me quite as happy as food. I’m a girl that would trade a back massage for a steak with a tasty rub, a bouquet of roses for a bottle of rosé, and a love card for some loaded carbs. Chris has come to learn that I’m at my best when I’m fed. Like I always tell him: Don’t let your love starve.

Rome is a great place to do this. Stroll through the city hand-in-hand and duck down winding alleyways in search of the best meals around. The hunt for these places is almost as fun as the dining experiences themselves. As you wander, your hunger grows.

After our recent visit to Rome, my recommendation is to start with a little vino. Who doesn’t love daytime drinking? Prosecco, a.k.a. sparkling wine, is ubiquitous in Italy and is the perfect way to start your food tour of desire. This libation will have your partner feeling bubbly in no time. Used as an apertif, it will be sure to stimulate your appetites in preparation for what’s to come. Find a quiet corner in the back of a cafe and enjoy your sparkling refreshment as you stare into each other’s eyes.

Crostinis are the perfect antipasti to pair with your bubbles. Meaning “mini toasts” in Italian, these small toasted pieces of bread are served with a variety of toppings. The most common crostinis are topped with meats, cheeses, seafood, and vegetables. Choose a few of your favorites to enjoy before your main dish.

Speaking of a main dish, indulge (or as they say in Italy, Mangia)! You’re in Italy so you might as well enjoy as much pasta as possible. (Hot tip: Women love carbs; they are our forbidden fruit.) Romans tend to make their meals with the freshest ingredients and that freshness really comes through in the food. Contrary to popular belief, spaghetti and meatballs, fettuccine alfredo, and chicken parmigiana are not true Italian dishes; The Olive Garden has been lying to us all this time. For an authentic pasta dish, try the traditional spaghetti alla carbonara or a penne all’arribbiata. We all know from watching Lady and the Tramp that sharing a plate of stringy spaghetti can be very romantic.

Viewfinder tip: When in Rome, eat. A lot. Without guilt.

The perfect ending to your Rome-antic food tour would have to be gelato. This rich and creamy dessert will taste as silky and smooth as your desire. Why not feast on it as you devour one another with your eyes. It isn’t fair to call this confection “ice cream” because it is more of a whisper, told by an angel to your stomach. While the gelato might be cold, it will definitely fan the flames between you and your sweetheart. It will leave you screaming for amore.

What is your favorite meal for a romantic evening?