Ep 4. Rome

In the fourth episode of "Gino's Italian Escape" season 1, titled "Rome," chef Gino D'Acampo travels to the heart of Italy to explore the city of Rome and its culinary traditions.

Gino begins his journey in Trastevere, one of Rome's most charming and authentic neighborhoods. He visits Pasticceria Trastevere, a local bakery that has been making traditional Roman pastries and sweets for over 70 years. Gino tries a few of their specialties, including the maritozzo, a sweet bread filled with whipped cream, and the crostata di ricotta, a tart made with fresh ricotta cheese.

Next, Gino heads to Testaccio, the former meatpacking district of Rome that has become known for its vibrant food scene. He visits the Mercato di Testaccio, a bustling market where vendors sell everything from fruit and vegetables to fresh seafood and meat. Gino talks to some of the vendors and learns about the ingredients that are essential to Roman cuisine, such as pecorino romano, a sharp sheep's cheese, and guanciale, cured pork cheek.

For lunch, Gino heads to Da Enzo al 29, a family-run trattoria in Testaccio that is famous for its carbonara. Gino watches as the chef prepares the dish, which is made with guanciale, pecorino romano, eggs, and black pepper. He then gets to try it for himself and declares it the best carbonara he's ever had.

In the afternoon, Gino visits the Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world. He marvels at the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, and reflects on the rich history and culture of Rome.

For dinner, Gino visits Casa Bleve, a restaurant in the heart of Rome that is known for its extensive wine cellar and innovative cuisine. Gino meets the owner, who takes him on a tour of the cellar and explains the process of making and aging wine. He then enjoys a multi-course meal that includes dishes such as tuna tartare with avocado and lime, homemade taglierini pasta with clams and bottarga, and pigeon with black truffle.

Finally, Gino ends his day with a visit to Gelateria del Teatro, a gelato shop in Trastevere that creates unique and delicious flavors using only the freshest ingredients. Gino tries several of their flavors, including pistachio and raspberry sorbet, and proclaims it the perfect way to end a day in Rome.

Overall, "Gino's Italian Escape" season 1 episode 4 provides a comprehensive and delicious tour of Rome's culinary and cultural offerings. From traditional pastries and market stalls to innovative restaurants and gelato shops, Gino showcases the diversity and richness of Roman cuisine.