While the elegant streets stretching out from Piazza di Spagna and down Via dei Condotti offer much for the fashionista, nowadays there is just as much tantalizing window shopping and decadence to be had in this historical part of Rome for the foodie. Here are my favourite boutiques for indulging the palate or buying an edible gift that looks just as exquisite as a jewel-encrusted watch from Bulgari or a pair of stilettos from Prada.
Tartufi & Friends
Via Borgognona, 4/E
11am-9pm
This cozy little cafe and truffle boutique is so seductive I almost fell off my bike when riding it past it yesterday. It’s only just opened but is already a favourite for foodies and romantics looking for somewhere to eat any time of day. One part is set up like an opulent old-fashioned chocolate store, except with truffles being the star here. The other side is an irresistibly chic little area with intimate booths where one can indugle in a truffle tasting or even order a three course meal. They offer salads, carpaccio, cheese selections and desserts flavored with truffle, along with a range of the finest Italian wines and spirits.
Venchi
Via della Croce, 25/26
eu.venchi.com/
For the chocolate connoisseur this place is heaven! You’ll be lured in by the most elegant chocolate you’ve ever seen. These guys have been producing chocolate in Italy since 1878 so they’ve become an institution in this country. In the summer months you might be tempted to try their chocolate as a cool melting gelato. Their gelato is made fresh using all natural ingredients and they boast flavours like dark 56%, cuor di cacao 75%, gianduja and milk chocolate. A great spot to buy gifts to take back home.
Laduree
Via Borgognona, 4C
Mon 2.30pm – 7.30pm – Tue – Sun 10.30am – 7.30pm
Yes, I know – this is not Italian but if you’ve travelled from afar you may still be tempted to poke your head in this absolutely exquisite macaron store. Again, the packaging and products here are so seductive that it makes for great sweet tooth window shopping. The flavours of their world famous pastel-coloured macarons cover everything from yuzu-ginger to orange blossom to caramel with salted butter!
