The region of Puglia, on the coast of the Adriatic sea, is known for its beautiful coastline but also for producing some of the tastiest olive oil, good wines and as an historic center for cultivating the wheat used to make pasta. Besides that, Apulian fish and seafood are literally fresh out of the ocean.
In Rome, which is also near the sea, the restaurants and trattorie that serve fish are scattered across the city but one of the most cozy is Tram Tram in the San Lorenzo neighborhood near the La Sapienza university. The bohemian working class area, is filled with small bars, wine shops and cafes that cater to both the students and the workers living there.
Rosanna – along with her sister and her daughters Fabiola and Antonella, owners of charming trattoria Tram Tram – are originally from Puglia, and they bring the spirit of their cuisine to the big city. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming plus Tram Tram stays open for Sunday lunch, which plays a big role in the Italian family dining tradition. When my son, Francesco, visits from L.A. and I don’t feel like cooking on Sunday, that’s where we go.
Obviously the majority of the specialties on the menu are sea-related and their fried anchovies, roasted sea bass and mussels are exceptional, but the menu also offers some cucina romana classics in addition to Apulian specials. Their famous fave e cicoria, a blend of pureed broad beans and chicory, are a must for all, but an especially great option for vegans. Besides the seafood there are choices for carnivores too, for example a delicious tartare that is made out of prized fassone beef, which comes from Piedmont, in northwestern Italy, then dressed with Apulian olive oil, cherry tomatoes and olives. The pastas like orecchiette (little ears), a Puglia classic, are excellent as well as spaghetti with prawns or a Mediterranean-inspired linguine with grouper, capers, olives and wild fennel.
The menu changes according to the seasons, as it should, so you’ll find vegetables like Romanesco broccoli and puntarelle in late autumn/winter, then the carciofi cimaroli, local artichokes, which start appearing through spring, when glorious asparagus arrive. The wine list at Tram Tram is serious, with a good selection from Puglia but also from near Rome and other areas of Italy. The service is courteous and the owners make sure everyone is happy and eating well.
On Sunday the place is filled with families: children, grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles and the last time I was there with Francesco, the butcher who provides all the meat for the restaurant was sitting at the next table with his family. Truly Italian style, we struck up a conversation about food, eating well, meat, life and the neighborhood. It was like being at home with friends and family without having to cook or clean up. Happiness!
Tram Tram
Via dei Reti 46
Tel. +39 06 490416
This is one of my favorite places in Rome. Elizabeth introduced me to Tram Tram on one of my trips, and I was able to try the purée of fava beans. I have had mixed experiences with fava beans, so I was hesitant. No reason! This creamy sensation was so amazingly delicious. I can’t wait to go back to Tram Tram!
Come back soon! The seasonal menu is now full of Spring treats. Ci vediamo presto.