Seemor
Trattoria PennestriB+Worth Trying
Via Giovanni da Empoli, 5, 00154 Roma RM, Italy
· Roman restaurant, Italian restaurant, Meat dish restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1900 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A Bib Gourmand Roman trattoria with contemporary touches, standout pastas and chocolate mousse, warm service, and occasional long waits; best with a reservation.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Trattoria Pennestri delivers solid Roman cooking with exceptional pasta execution and standout sauces that justify its Bib Gourmand status and loyal following. Friendly, knowledgeable service and a warm modern setting create a welcoming neighborhood experience. However, quality variation during peak service and occasional pacing delays prevent grade A territory—reliable but not consistently exceptional.
Restaurant Summary
In Ostiense, this trattoria feels warm and modern rather than touristy, with staff who guide you through Roman classics and a smart wine list. Guests often mention friendly, efficient service: "They helped us pick dishes and never rushed us." The room stays lively but relaxed, though peak times can mean slower pacing. The cooking leans classic Roman with a chef-led touch—perfectly cooked pastas, crisp guanciale, and occasional offal and wild boar alongside gentle twists like chimichurri on pork. It is produce-driven and seasonally minded without theatrics, so expect comfort with polish more than fusion fireworks. The chocolate mousse is a sleeper hit that many call their favorite bite. Families are welcome. Kids who like simple flavors can do well with plain-leaning pastas or meatballs, and sides like smashed potatoes help. There is no explicit kids menu, portions are modest, and adventurous items appear, so parents should scan the menu first and consider booking earlier slots.
At a Glance
- Bib Gourmand-quality Roman dishes with standout pastas and chocolate mousse
- Friendly, knowledgeable service with helpful wine guidance
- Long waits at peak and occasional seating delays even with reservations
- Portions trend modest and some find prices high for size
- Occasional reports of oversalt or undercooked pasta on busy nights
What Sets It Apart
- bib_gourmand_value
- thoughtful_wine_guidance
- elevated_roman_offal
- modern_cozy_room
What People Love
- Emotionally satisfying pastas cooked al dente
- Chocolate mousse with textural contrast
- Warm, helpful service that guides choices
- Local vibe in a modern, cozy room
Points of Concern
- Peak-hour waits can be lengthy; reserve and arrive on time to reduce delays
- Portions are modest; add a side if hungry
- A few reports of oversalted or undercooked pasta during rush periods
- Rare illness reports linked to egg-based pasta; most diners report no issues
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Torta rustica di erbe e funghi or Pici with chicory and fennel
- For seafood lovers: Baccalà fritto with puttanesca
- Pair mains with smashed potatoes to round out portions
Perfect For
- A relaxed date night with Roman classics
- Pasta-focused lunch away from tourist crowds
- Wine-paired dinner with friends
- Food lovers exploring offal and traditional specialties
Location Insights
Area: Creative, post-industrial Ostiense: galleries, street art, young professionals, and food-savvy locals.
Safety: Generally safe with normal urban awareness; some reviews note it feels less charming late night outdoors.
Nearby: Near Piramide/Testeraccio, street art walls, Eataly Ostiense, offices and residential blocks.
TrastevereThe dining scene in Trastevere is eclectic, featuring traditional Roman trattorias, trendy bars, and international eateries. The area is bustling in the evenings with a mix of casual and upscale dining options, attracting both visitors and residents seeking a lively yet authentic Roman experience.
Gianicolo Hill areaThis micro-neighborhood near Via Giovanni da Empoli offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the central Trastevere nightlife, with elegant restaurants and cafes overlooking the city, appealing to diners looking for a refined yet intimate setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday07:00–23:00
Wednesday07:00–23:00
Thursday07:00–23:00
Friday12:00–15:00, 07:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–15:00, 07:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–15:00, 07:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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