Meet the Roman Street Food spot causing all the buzz around Italy.
The street food frenzy has taken Italy by storm over the past decade. Vendors, food trucks, and small shops can be found all over Italy. From north to south, these shops satisfy the pallets of their natives with plates that pay homage to their roots.
Perhaps no spot has become more famous than Rome’s Supplizio.
Founded in 2014 by one of Rome’s most notable chefs Arcangelo Dandini, Supplizio has become known as the spot where true Romans go to enjoy authentic and affordable cuisine.
We sat down with Arcangelo and Supplizio co-owner Fabrizio Piazzolla to give our readers all access to one of the founding fathers of the Roman street food scene.
America Domani: Street food in Italy has become a phenomenon now. How did it reach this point?
Fabrizio Piazzolla: Like many other things, the rise of street food in Italy took place because of a variety of reasons. The first thing is that Italians’ attitudes and approach toward food was changing dramatically. It was no longer “in style” to eat elegantly. Instead, Italians slowly started to embrace the concept of eating in and around the streets without worrying about their image. As time passed, many restaurants started to cater to Italians who preferred to eat outdoors rather than indoors. Additionally, alcohol and aperitivos experienced a boom period and this lent itself naturally to the rise of street food, which complemented these beverages perfectly. Lastly, there was a drastic shift in the culinary scene of Italy, with many fresh young chefs replacing the old generation, and these chefs took a more innovative approach and challenged traditional Italian culinary practices.
(Photo Credit: Annie Ojile)
AD: How would you compare Roman street food to that of other Italian regions and cities?
FP: Although it is a relatively new mainstream phenomenon, street food is a throwback to centuries-old old Italian traditions that were born primarily in towns and villages. Recently, we have experienced an urbanization of street food, which has made it a phenomenon in big cities like Rome and Milan. While our location is certainly different from others in that it is rooted in authentic Roman traditions, there is one component that binds together all street food from across Italy, which is the concept of fast food at low cost. Our focus has always been on high-quality, authentic street food that provides customers with a genuine experience at an economic price point.
AD: What are the five best street foods in Rome in your opinion?
FP: Suppli, which is a deep-fried rice ball prepared with tomato, egg, and mozzarella. Pane e porchetta, which is a succulent authentic Roman pork sandwich. Maritozzo, which is an ancient Roman cream-based roll. Filetto di baccala, which is a unique variation of cod filet. Lastly, I would say a simple delicacy that is loved around the world but prepared in a uniquely Roman style here at Supplizio, a slice of pizza!
(Photo Credit: Annie Ojile)