HOTEL DE RUSSIE – ROME
Via del Babuino, 9, 00187 Rome, Italy
Date Visited: September 2013, July 2009
Rating: 9.0
A few years ago when I visited Italy for the first time I immediately fell in love. We visited a few cities but I think part of the reason why I loved Rome so much was because of the De Russie. This luxurious Rocco Forte hotel is a haven within a city, a quiet escape from all the crowds. The exterior has a historic feel to it and then as you are greeted by a doorman in top-hat and enter through the massive wooden doors you find yourself in a palatial, modern white lobby. The rooms themselves are gorgeous but on this trip, with just one evening in the city, we were on a mission for a cocktail. More specifically a Bellini as they just happen to serve the best one I have ever had.
As you cross through the lobby into the “Secret Garden” you are met by a spectacular tiered courtyard dotted by levels of candles and white umbrellas. Down below is the cocktail area where we sat with romantic dining areas that get progressively more private as they escalate. The best part about having drinks at the De Russie is the incredible assortment of snacks and amuse bouche that come with it. Each table is given a number of plates with olives, nuts, chips as well as fresh colorful vegetables and dip. They will also give you the tastiest little mozzarella balls, small pieces of warm quiche and fresh chunks of focaccia bread all so delicious that you may not even need dinner afterwards. And to wash it all down with a perfectly pink peach and champagne concoction – heaven!
“When in Rome!”
The De Russie Hotel is on my EPIC Picks list for being one of my favorite hotels. I hope to return again some day to write about their amazing food!
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