Nestled in the hills about an hour outside of Rome is where you'll find this charming family owned…read morerestaurant serving up fresh made pastas, homemade cheese and cured meats, and so much more. My sister and I were taken to this place by a local guide during a private olive oil tour and he truly couldn't have picked a better place off the tourist beaten path. Every single bite that went into our mouth was absolutely delicious...this was honestly one of the meals I've had in Italy. We started with a selection of fresh mozzarella cheese before moving on to an expansive meats and cheese board that included a selection of items I'm still dreaming of. It was one of the best charcuterie boards I've ever enjoyed and our guide informed us that the meats and most of the cheeses were all made in-house. There was an amazing blood sausage that was out of this world. (the family also owns a sheep farm near the property) Next up were two melt in your mouth pasta dishes that get two thumbs up from me. We somehow managed to have just enough room left for dessert which consisted of tiramisu and a pana cotta topped with this amazing pistachio cream that was to die for. Luckily for me, the restaurant also offers a small aisle of local food items (pasta, olive oil, etc.) that you can purchase and you best believe I bought a jar of the pistachio cream to take home. We left this lunch so full we didn't even bother with dinner that night. If you find yourself in this neck of the woods be sure to stop in because you won't leave disappointed (or hungry).

The best pizza restaurant in the Rieti area. You will be greeted by wonderful wine and amazing…read moreantipasti. They have a huge pizza selection, including pizza's as big a tires!! Always worth a visit.

I was recently talking to an Italian friend of mine who has a house in the Sabina region. He was…read moretelling me of Casperia, a town that has been taken over by Anglo Saxon vacationers and homeowners. I searched the internet, found photos of the town and a B & B owned by a British couple that was beautiful. They did a super architectural renovation with a to-die-for mosaic tile bathroom you would only dream about experiencing, furnished with antiques and oriental rugs. The price tag was a whopping 900 euros a week. As I read further, I was a little thrown off by the owners complaint that the comune wouldn't allow the permit for a balcony to be added to their ancient home. After understanding Italian culture and preservation, you wouldn't ask for such an eye sore. So to satisfy my curiosity, I paid a visit to Casperia. I took a walk through the charming ancient town, built in circular layers with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. After my tour, I ended up at the only bar located inside the walls, Friend's Cafe for a glass of wine and to let the kids play in the square. I shared the outside umbrellas with several English speaking foreigners reading books, seeming not to notice the few loud beer guzzling men nearby and not to mention the 'Er mutanda' look-alike sitting behind me. Suddenly I felt an odd sensation and one not particularly comforting. When I walked inside, the bar seemed more of a fish n' chips pub with mirrored beer signs and chalkboards boasting about their British beer selection on tap. I love all of that stuff too guys but in England and not in an ancient Sabina town. Yes I did find a decent glass of wine, but I have one problem with this place. When I go outside of my country I expect full immersion, to eat like the locals and do as they would do. I don't look for an English tap beer when the Sabina region produces excellent wines. I'm just not sold on the idea of profitting from and catering to "us" foreigners.The Sabina region has a lot to offer, but not this place unless your in Anglo Saxon withdrawal!

Aimee, As an Anglo…read moreSaxon from Texas, I thoroughly enjoyed Friends Cafe in Casperia. Granted, it is not the typical Italian cafe, and I was a little surprised at the diverse beer selection. However, after walking up from the Piazza below, it was a refreshing oasis of relaxation. The food was good, beer cold, and wine adequate. We also stayed at La Torretta B&B. Maureen, La Torretta's Hostess, was delightful. The lodging was outstanding & inexpensive. Casperia is an out of the way spot that represents the real Italy. No cars, no scooters, just locals. If you are looking for shopping then don't go to Casperia. It is one of those places that you bring a thick book to read and take afternoon naps! Thanks, Jim

Fabulous food. Simple and very good. Pasta is the best I had in Italy. View is fantastic. A…read morereal hidden gem.