Vicolo di Montevecchio 8 Near Piazza Navona
Tonight I am making my dinner choice by selecting a place which I passed earlier in the week and thought it might be worth a try. My basis for selecting it is that there was no one outside trying to steer you in, the atmosphere seemed cozy and it was off the main drag. Who knows maybe this will be a new hidden gem?
The interior of Osteria del Pegno has vaulted ceilings and is dimly lit by overhead lights and sconces with yellow/orange bulbs in them. Tables are set with light pastel colored cloths each with a candle for a touch of romance. The walls are decked in mirrors of multiple size and shapes in addition to wine bottles on shelving. I guess I would describe the look at "Italian country elegant". No red and white checked tablecloths here!
For my starter I am going traditional, Rigatoni al'Amitriciana (with tomato, bacon and red pepper). Along with this I requested an antipasta plate and saltimbocca as my main course. As I ordered, the waiter (who seems to be the man in charge), told me that this was too much and I should skip the antipasta. At least he was honest! I really did want some sausage.
Along with my meal I reguested wine but I didn't want the typical tasteless jug wine served in a pitcher. He suggested a split of chianti. I am not sure how much this cost, but it just "OK". Nothing special.
For my first course, the rigatoni was a bit disappointing. First the pasta was cooked past the al dente stage and the sauce was just "sauce". In a few of my past meals the tomato sauce was a bit more chunky. It didn't taste awful, but it also wasn't memorable.
Following my pasta I was served the Saltimbocca. I was a bit of an "el cheapo" and ordered it because it was one of the lower priced meat dishes on the menu. The dish was pretty good but again, not one of my favorites.
As in some other places, service here tonight was painfully slow. In every restaurant there is a big difference on if you get your food immediately or if you wait. I guess it depends on the kitchen and how much is being cooked at the moment. I am also surprised to see some people who came in after me to get food before me. Hello? How do you say "did you forget me" in Italian?
Dining at Osteria del Pegno is not completely horrible, just not memorable. If you want to visit a cozy place off the beaten path, this may be a good choice. If you want inspirational Italian food, go elsewhere.
Total bill €26.30
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