When I lived in Rome, my dream weekend getaway would be to escape to the countryside. I would always search out an agriturismo (a farm designed to also receive guests), as to me they were synonymous with a chance to get close to nature and eat (lots of) great genuine food made with local products.
Even now that I have moved to the countryside, visiting an agriturismo has not lost its allure and luckily for me, I have several within close reach.
One of my favorites in my area is I Casali della Parata. Settled in the midst of wine country between Lanuvio and Velletri, I Casali della Parata checks all the boxes; aesthetics, amazing food, professional courteous staff and views of vineyards and olive trees.
The road leading up to the Parata is beautiful , immersed in green and sets the mood for a relaxing lunch in the country.
Located in a beautifully restored stone farmhouse, the agriturimo’s restaurant is divided into sections; try and request a table in the window area, which has floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors for maximum views and light. Don’t be disappointed if you don’t get one, the entire place is oozing with charm with its stone walls, wood beams and rustic feel.
You cannot go wrong with ordering their fixed price menu at €25, which rotates according to the seasonal ingredients available. It includes an antipasto of local products, un primo(pasta dish), un secondo ( a meat dish), contorno (side dish), typical cookies for dessert, coffee and an amaro. This menu is listed on their website; I often study it before I go.
There is also an ala carte menu that offers a tempting choice of handmade pasta , grilled meats and cheeses, and wood fired pizzas , along with a wine list including selections from local reputable wineries.
The daytime is ideal to stroll around the farmhouses and see the vineyards; kids can run around, play ping pong, have fun on the swing set and pet the few cats wandering around. If you are a parent with children old enough to wander by themselves, these last few amenities happily keep the kids occupied between the courses while you can relax even further.
The restaurant is only open on Friday nights, Saturday lunch and dinner, Sunday lunch and holidays. Make sure you book before going; it is quite the popular venue for special events such as weddings, baptisms and confirmations.
I Casali della Parata
http://www.casalidellaparata.it/
0696195154 – 3393544258 – 3394588346
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