We understand why you’d be wary of a place like Hosteria Romana. There’s probably a bachelorette party on the patio and a barker trying to lure in Española Way tourists. And yes, the overpriced Italian food is mostly mediocre (at least the portions are gigantic). But this restaurant does provide a wildly entertaining night full of napkin twirling, dancing, and great service and hospitality. The servers here—all charming Italian men—will make sure you have a good time. They’ll get you involved in the Tarantella and escort you over to a giant wheel of cheese so you can watch them prepare your fettuccine.
video credit: Virginia Otazo
video credit: Virginia Otazo
video credit: Virginia Otazo
video credit: Virginia Otazo
Food RundownCarpacio Di Manzo
It’s $28, but it’s really two appetizers in one. The amount of arugula on top basically counts as a salad. And the carpaccio isn’t going to blow anyone away, but at least there’s lots of it.
photo credit: Virginia Otazo
Fettucini Alla Ruota Di Parmigiano
The fettuccine is tossed inside a giant wheel of cheese with porcini mushrooms, cream sauce, and truffle oil. The pasta itself is a perfect al dente. Sometimes the cheese cart can’t make it to your table, but they’ll walk you over to watch. It is $40, but can legitimately feed two or three people.
photo credit: Virginia Otazo
Tiramisu
Toss out the rolled wafer cookie on top. It’s probably a little stale. But other than that, this fluffy tiramisu is a nice way to end a big meal here.