Il Brillo Parlante

I first went here with my cousin Linzee when we had just arrived in Rome and have been back multiple times since then. Most recently I met Florian there for a glass of wine last night to discuss the article he's writing for the magazine.

The name, The Talking Cricket, comes from the Pinocchio, however in the original version the cricket does not play nearly the role that Jiminy Cricket plays in the Disney version.

The space upstairs is a small wine bar that has one of the thickets wine lists I have since in Italy (an impressive feat) that has bottles ranging from 15 to 1500 euros. They always have a nice layout of little thins to munch on sitting on the bar, the mini pizzette (tiny pizza-eqsue pieces of bread with a dash of tomato sauce and olive oil) are always a good bet. The tables outside are always a great spot to people watch (just around the corner of Piazza del Popolo and Via del Corse) and are just starting to fill up as the weather warms.

The main dining room is downstairs and has ample seating in more rooms that snake back away from the street than meet the eye. Their pizza is very good as well as their pasta, I'm a particular fan of the Cacio e Pepe, spaghetti with loads of pecorino cheese and black pepper. The also have some very nice cheese plates, including a French platter. The melted pecorino with honey and walnuts is a must for an appetizer (great for 2 or 3 people).

Prices are reasonable (especially for the area) with pizza from 7-10 euros, pasta a little more and wine starting at 15 euros (unfortunately there is no house wine). It can be a little busy on weekends so calling ahead isn't a bad idea.

Via delle Fontanelle, 12; 06 3243334; www.ilbrilloparlante.it