Pierluigi

Pierluigi has been part of Roman social life since 1938, and its tables spread across Piazza de' Ricci, a small, quiet square just off Via Giulia, one of the most elegant streets of Renaissance Rome. The restaurant describes itself as a fixture for discerning international travellers, and on a warm evening the terrace, framed by historic palazzi, is one of the most pleasant places to dine in the centre.

Fish and seafood lead the menu, cooked with a combination of traditional and more modern techniques, alongside seasonal meat, vegetables and herbs. Expect simply prepared fish, seafood pastas and starters that change with what is available, as well as dishes for those who prefer meat. The wine cellar is one of the restaurant's strengths, with more than 1,500 labels covering Italian and French wines, Champagne and international spirits.

There is also an American-style cocktail bar, designed for drinks before or after the meal, or for a cocktail with lighter food. It makes Pierluigi a good place to start or end an evening in the area, even if you do not stay for a full dinner.

The restaurant is open every day, for lunch from 12:00 to 14:30 and dinner from 19:00 to 23:30. Reserve through the reservations page on the website, and ask for a table on the terrace if the weather is good; inside, the dining rooms are more formal. Enquiries can also be sent to [email protected]. The atmosphere is polished and lively, and it suits couples, business dinners and celebrations. Prices are at the upper end of the scale, particularly for fish and wine, so ask about the price of any fish sold by weight before ordering. Smart casual dress suits the setting, which is made for a long evening rather than a quick meal.

Piazza de' Ricci is between Via Giulia and Via di Monserrato, a few minutes' walk from Campo de' Fiori and Palazzo Farnese. Buses run along nearby Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and Lungotevere, and Ponte Sisto leads across to Trastevere. After dinner, walk along Via Giulia, which is particularly atmospheric at night, or head to the bars around Campo de' Fiori. The Jerry Thomas Project, one of the city's best-known cocktail bars, is also within walking distance near Chiesa Nuova.