Rome is known for having rather heavy cuisine, with dishes such as pasta alla carbonara, alla gricia, and all ‘amatriciana; all of which feature guanciale (pork cheek) and plenty of the pungent and unmistakable pecorino romano; being among the most common and popular in restaurants. And justifiably so. Not only are they delicious but they are intrinsically part of the Roman culture, and I’m the first to order a heaping portion of cacio e pepeserved a parmesan bowl.
That being said, while there is always a place for enjoying traditional Italian comfort food, if you have special dietary needs; if you prefer to eat locally-grown, organic food; if perhaps after a vacation of imbibing in all the wonders of Roman gastronomy you feel the need to eat a wholesome, nutrient-rich meal that doesn’t weigh you down; or if you’re like me and you feast with your eyes as much as with your taste buds, don’t worry. Rome is booming with innovative restaurants that cater to all these requisites. In fact, there is one that one that checks all the boxes and more.
Fiore is more than a restaurant with healthy options. It is like a food spa where one journeys into the world of genuine flavor where natural, raw materials and sophisticated preparation techniques are presented. It is evident that the goal of Fiore is not only to please its clients but also to invite them to take care of themselves: to offer a break from stress without giving up the pleasure of fine dining by mixing innovative techniques and creative thinking that makes a difference. The result? Simple, delicious dishes that are also vibrant and nutritious.
From the street Fiore might not seem like anything special. Once you step inside and are warmly greeted by the staff, see the minimalist decor of the open floor plan where light enters via the perimeter embrace of the windows and seduced by the light wood of the furnishings, you can’t help but feel more relaxed before even being seated.
Once you are seated, the friendly and prepared server will explain their menu and their “flexitarian” philosophy, which proposes to put mainly plant or plant-based foods at the center of the diet. It does not exclude foods of animal origin but integrates them in small quantities in respect of the environment and sustainability by using the highest quality seasonal, organic, and local products. For example, Fiore only uses producers who give life to products in an ethical way. Meat and fish products come from extensive farms or in which animals live in the wild and the fish come from open sea basins with a constant exchange of water to avoid dioxins, heavy metals, chemicals, antibiotics, and dyes.
Just about anyone with any dietary need or preference will find something delicious and satisfying to choose from the menu. Steamed and raw options are popular choices, along with power juices and rich salads. But you can also find classic Italian dishes made with health in mind, creating delicious meals to satisfy your emotional hunger without leaving you feeling weighed down.
Come to Fiore when you have time to dedicate to good conversation and linger. Everything is made to order with the utmost care and each dish is meticulously crafted piece of art, so don’t expect anything to be rushed. This is part of Fiore’s Zen-like appeal. In warm months you’ll want to head upstairs to take advantage of the restaurant’s beautiful terrace, which makes Fiore one of the best places in Rome to enjoy an outdoor meal or aperitif. It’s all surrounded by light colors, the aromas from the restaurant’s vertical garden, and the views of Rome’s quintessentially charming rooftops.
The quality of the raw materials, and well-balanced dishes, combined with the exquisite hospitality, make a simple lunch a unique experience. Every dish is researched – nothing is left to chance when creating this refined, daring cuisine.
Healthy, delicious Italian cuisine, where dining is a proposal to live well and feel better. To satisfy the palate and to do good – this is the flexitarian cuisine of Fiore. Welcome to the food spa.
Fiore
Via Boncompagni, 31-33, 00187
Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 4202 0400
http://www.fiore.roma.it/
