We stumbled upon Makasar when looking for a late dinner after checking into the Relais Vatican View. I am so grateful that we got into Rome so late because it allowed us to find this gem of a place! We parked our car in a nearby garage and went off in search of a place to eat dinner. There were literally on two places that still had lights on when we were driving around. The first one was a really fancy restaurant that was closing up so our fingers were crossed for the second place. That was when we hit jack pot! Makasar is a wine bar/cafe/tea bar. There is a bar lining one wall, filled with wines, hard liquors, and local specialties. Across from the bar was a wall of loose leaf teas. So many choices! There is also an adorable sitting area filled with intimate tables, soft lights, and book lined walls.
We snagged a table and ordered from the limited menu. I had the pesto lasagna and my husband got the bruschetta. Both were some of the best food we had our entire trip! The pesto was freshly made and the whole thing just melted in your mouth. The bruschetta had yummy fresh, slightly toasted bread, piles of the most incredible mozzarella I've ever had, and tons of fresh tomatoes and basil. We paired the meal with local wine, recommended by the bartender/server/only person working there. Our meal was finished off with a chocolate cake with pears baked inside and local grappa and limoncello. So delicious!
The place was filled with 20 and 30 something locals and even though it technically closed as we were eating, we weren't rushed out. We were encouraged to linger and hang out. This is the kind of place that I wish I had around the corner from my house. Great food, local drinks, relaxing atmosphere, and good people! Don't miss it! read more