Isotta | Trattoria Cortese in Rome

What does courtesy taste like?

In the heart of Torrevecchia, a historic and authentic Roman neighborhood, Isotta | Trattoria Cortese has recently opened its doors, a Roman trattoria with a modern touch and the old-school charm of true courtesy. Isotta was born from the vision of two partners and friends: Michelin-starred chef Davide Puleio, already owner of the renowned Pulejo Ristorante on Via dei Gracchi, and Matteo D’Anzi, a hospitality expert and designer of high-end gastronomic spaces.

A tribute to tradition with roots in the present

The name “Isotta” is a tribute to Matteo D’Anzi’s grandmother — a symbol of home, warmth, and family. This emotional connection is reflected in the entire concept of the restaurant: a place where tradition finds its contemporary space, and timeless elegance meets modern simplicity, inspired by the 1960s and 70s, with a focus on design and modern culinary techniques.

Courtesy and hospitality at the heart of the experience

The tagline “Trattoria Cortese” recalls a time when kindness and respect were at the center of human relationships — values that are fully embraced in the restaurant’s philosophy today. Courtesy isn’t limited to attentive and thoughtful service; it also shines through in the quality of the dishes, the warm welcome, and the refined atmosphere, evoking the feeling of old-fashioned family meals. Every detail, from ingredient selection to interior decor, is designed to make guests feel at home.

A menu that celebrates tradition

The kitchen at Isotta is led by Chef Saverio Pasquali, whose training includes working with top names in the culinary world such as Luciano Monosilio, Andrea Migliaccio, and Davide Puleio himself. Signature dishes include homages to Roman tradition, such as fettuccine with chicken giblets and the iconic savory bignè, as well as reimagined classics like tomato rice and cannelloni with wild greens.

Design that tells a story

With extensive experience in restaurant interiors, Matteo D’Anzi personally oversaw the design of the space, drawing inspiration from old-style trattorias but with a modern approach. Details like the kitchen’s light blue tiles, traditional marble chip flooring, and vintage chandeliers create an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and contemporary.

A new destination for Torrevecchia

Located in a popular and rapidly evolving area, Isotta | Trattoria Cortese aims to become a neighborhood landmark — a place where locals can enjoy quality cuisine without having to venture far from home. With 40 seats inside and just as many outdoors, the trattoria is ready to welcome families, young people, and tourists in search of authenticity and conviviality.