Il Marchese – Amaro Bar

Il Marchese – Osteria, Mercato & Liquori is a striking fusion of two worlds: the graceful finesse of a French salon and the warm, hearty spirit of a Roman trattoria. Located in Rome’s charming centro storico near Piazza del Popolo, it holds the distinction of being Europe’s first Amaro Bar. Step inside and you're greeted by elegant stuccoes, velvets, and parfum‑lit chandeliers. The back bar dazzles with an ever‑growing collection of hundreds—and by some counts, over 600—distinct amaro labels, including rare vintage editions from the 1950s to ’70s. Whether you’re an amaro aficionado or curious newcomer, the range here is unmatched. The cocktail offering is equally creative. Menus are divided into explorations of Spritz, Americano styles, seasonal signatures, and inventive twists like the French Cordusio (gin, amaro, Franciacorta) or the smoky Paloma Cavour with amaro and rosemary syrup. Add to that ever‑fresh ideas like clarified milkamaro punch or fruity-lavender concoctions, and you have a cocktail list that surprises and delights. Foodwise, Chef Daniele Roppo crafts modern‑lightened takes on Roman classics using locally sourced, high‑quality ingredients. Expect croquettes, the “Roman poker” of carbonara, amatriciana, gricia and cacio e pepe, as well as porcini tortelli, saltimbocca, lamb scottadito, and homemade desserts like tiramisu in traditional or pistachio form. For a pre‑dinner treat, their aperitivo between ~18:30–21:00 for around €15 includes your drink plus choices like pasta tasters, cured‑meat and cheese boards, or pinsa with fig and mozzarella—an excellent way to sample both food and drink. Open daily typically from lunchtime into the late night (roughly 12:30 pm to 2:00 am), Il Marchese is a dynamic destination both for an evening cocktail and a full‑bodied Roman meal.