Everyone has their favorite neighborhood bar in Rome. And while people say they love their own bar, you know that at the same time everyone’s got this nagging feeling that maybe the grass is a bit greener on the other side of town. There must be other bars, in other neighborhoods that are even better.
While I do love my neighborhood bars, I know for a fact that there are bars I wish were a bit closer to home. Lotti, off Via Veneto on Via Sardegna is one of those.
I first discovered Lotti when Sophie was about 10, and taking tennis lessons near Villa Borghese. I would drop her off, and – bad mother that I am – wander off to find a coffee and read the newspaper. (There is only so much 10 year old tennis playing you can watch.)
In my memory it was also always cold and rainy. (Why was I leaving my child to play tennis in that weather is something I’ve managed to forget). Anyway, when I first stumbled upon Lotti, it immediately became ‘my’ place.
One of the things I love about Lotti is that it is cozy and old fashioned feeling. Most of the bars in the area – especially those on Via Veneto – have gone all fancy and are not only intimidating, but way too expensive. Lotti is pretty much stuck in a time warp circa 1971 or so. Tiled floors and florescent lighting. And way reasonable prices.
I also love the fact that they have a back room where, in the winter, I could sit and read my Herald Tribune while I nursed my pot of tea and freshly made pastry. And warmer weather brought out the fabulous appliqued table cloth covered tables out front.
Did I mention that Lotti is not just a bar, but a fantastic pastry shop as well.
While most Roman bars are sip-your-espresso-and-get-out-there kind of places, the folks at Lotti always seemed genuinely glad to see me, and never rush me out. They have got to be the nicest group of folks around. The lady at the cash register greats every single customer with a smile, and the baristas are downright jolly.
Our new habit of late is to head to Lotti on Sunday mornings. Not because we have a reason to be in the neighborhood. But just because we love their cinnamon rolls and apple strudels.
Even though I usually go for a pastry, they also serve real food. Including ‘real’ breakfast. I love their egg-filled tramezzini. But if you have a hankering for scrambled eggs or an omlette and freshly squeezed juice, this is your place. Whether you live in the neighborhood or not. 
Lotti
Via Sardenga 13/21
Closed Saturdays, but open on Sundays.
Wow Elisabeth reading I really wished I was enjoying one of those pastries…..they look amazing. And “il tramezzino” too looks very good…..Shame I live quite far…but next time I go downtown I’ll defo go to this bar. I must be the only one that doesn’t love my next door bar…and after reading your post…now even less!!! Thank you for your informations!!!
Ciao!
Love the sandwich. Is that egg, tomato and proscuitto with lettuce?
remember they are closed Saturdays, which is a bit odd, but whatever and they have great sciroppi to add to your coffees!
Nicoletta: Definitely go next time you are around there.
Lucia: One is egg, ham, lettuc and tomato and the other is just egg and tomato.
Kip: I know, weird that they are closed on Saturdays. But nice and quite around there on Sundays. Perfect for late breakfast.
They might observe the (Orthodox)Jewish Sabbath if they are closed on Saturday. I didn’t have time to check: Is the bar near the Jewish Quarter?
@Michelle: no, no where near the Ghetto. I think it’s just that they cater to offices in the area and so Saturdays must be slow. But it is strange and a bit of a mystery.
Hey Elizabeth, I love love love these pictures! You really have a way of capturing vibes and charisma. I’ll be sure to check it out next time I’m in the area 🙂
We are heading to Rome next month, I will defintely be stopping by Lotti! Thanks for the recommendation!
My friends and I will check this place out in October. I am forwarding the post to them now . . .
Great neighborhood, about a 10 minute walk away is one of my favorite trattorias, Cantina Cantarini.
@Food Fairies: Glad you like the pix! They turn out so well because I have to eat everything I photograph, of course.
@Cathi and DG: See you there!
@Sfuso: I don’t know Cantarini, but will definitely check it out. Thanks.
I was just there 2 wks ago. We stubbled upon it and was a wonderful! We went back one more time before departing from Roma for that last little treat! Yum,Yum!!! I will be going back!!!