Benaco - Roma

Show! the chestnuts filled with a paste so thin to leave space to a filling of cream or ricotta that are a wonder. Fragrant and delicate fries, even those fries... read more Show! the chestnuts filled with a paste so thin to leave space to a filling of cream or ricotta that are a wonder. Fragrant and delicate fries, even those fries. really a temple of pastry. I'll be back in the morning for cream croissants.

We were wandering around that neighborhood looking for coffee and cakes for breakfast and we came upon this place. It is a decent modern cafe that definitely ca... read more We were wandering around that neighborhood looking for coffee and cakes for breakfast and we came upon this place. It is a decent modern cafe that definitely caters to a younger and local crowd. It is located in a long, very tranquil street, where there are only residential buildings. The Rome University of Fine Arts (RUFA), a private/public tertiary academy of art in Rome, is located there. No shops. Very few people passing and walking by: Bar Benaco is the only place which you can see some people around. It is not fancy, just a proper spot for some croissants and coffee. We had the usual Italian breakfast . We were shocked, the cornetti were scandalously small but and at the cost of great ones available in all Roman and Italian coffee shops. They gave us us the croissants wrapped in a paper napkin and not in a saucer. We had coffee, which was just OK, and the overpriced juice. Overall it is quite disorganized and offers nothing special. We really did not understand the enthusiastic reviews. Probably it is because it is the only bar/coffee shop available in that large, inhabited city district. No other options in the proximity. There is a nice seating area inside where students can meet, read and study at no charge. They have also some tables and chairs outside, under a verandah, free of charge, and maybe that is their best asset and attraction. Try it if you are in the area. But it is not worth a special trip.

We asked for italian specificalities and the waiter suggested their italian cornetto. We followed his advice and we did not regret it. They were indeed really g... read more We asked for italian specificalities and the waiter suggested their italian cornetto. We followed his advice and we did not regret it. They were indeed really good.

We hosted a reception for 25 guests to celebrate our daughter's graduation thesis, and it was a real success. The quality of the food was excellent, both the sa... read more We hosted a reception for 25 guests to celebrate our daughter's graduation thesis, and it was a real success. The quality of the food was excellent, both the savory and the desserts. The variety and quality of the cocktails were also remarkable. And the cake topping was a true masterpiece in its deliciousness and balance. All this was accompanied by attentive and courteous service in a quiet and private setting. Thanks to Bar Benaco for a wonderful evening on such an important day for us.

I highly recommend a regenerating break in this historic bar...always fresh, exquisite products and courteous and fast service...in a 50s atmosphere that lets y... read more I highly recommend a regenerating break in this historic bar...always fresh, exquisite products and courteous and fast service...in a 50s atmosphere that lets you breathe that pleasantly retro air.