Best Pastrami in Rome: Hidden Gem in a Local Neighborhood

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Discover Martello BBQ in San Basilio, Rome, where exceptional pastrami and a unique culinary journey await. Experience flavors crafted by Davide Ceccarelli!

Discovering Martello BBQ: A Culinary Gem in San Basilio, Rome

If you’re wandering through Rome and craving exceptional pastrami, look no further than Martello BBQ. Tucked away in the San Basilio neighborhood, this hidden gem offers a unique culinary experience far from the bustling tourist spots. With easy parking and a charming local atmosphere, Martello BBQ stands out not just for its food but also for its inspiring backstory.

The Man Behind the Grill: Davide Ceccarelli’s Journey

Davide Ceccarelli, the mastermind behind Martello BBQ, has a fascinating journey that adds depth to his culinary creations. After leaving school at 18 without a diploma, he spent a few aimless years before diving into the restaurant industry at 20. Starting as a waiter, Davide quickly transitioned into bartending and eventually found his true passion in the kitchen. He honed his skills at various restaurants in Rome and even attended a professional cooking school.

His turning point came during an internship at San Lorenzo, one of Rome’s top restaurants. "I owe my professional growth to that place," he reflects. However, like many others, the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to rethink his career path. Spending months experimenting with his new BBQ setup ignited his passion for smoked meats and outdoor cooking.

The Birth of Martello BBQ

By June 2024, after some meticulous planning and renovation of a small space in San Basilio, Martello BBQ officially opened its doors. Despite initial skepticism from locals regarding his unconventional offerings, word began to spread about Davide’s exceptional pastrami sandwiches.

• The Preparation Process: Davide’s pastrami undergoes an intricate preparation process lasting between five to eight days. The brisket is trimmed, brined for five days, seasoned with a special blend of spices, smoked for twelve hours, and finally cooked on the grill for another ten hours.

• Tasting Notes: The result is nothing short of extraordinary—moist and tender meat with a smoky flavor that lingers with each bite.

Menu Highlights: More Than Just Pastrami

While pastrami takes center stage at Martello BBQ, the menu boasts an array of delicious options:

• Sandwiches: Featuring freshly baked bread sourced from renowned baker Gabriele Bonci.
• Sauces: House-made condiments including classic ketchup and marrow-infused mayonnaise elevate each dish.
• Sides: Crispy fries and corn ribs provide perfect accompaniments to the main attractions.

Davide’s commitment to quality shines through every aspect of Martello BBQ. He emphasizes not only sourcing premium ingredients but also crafting everything from scratch to ensure an authentic experience.

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success

The first few months were challenging as locals were hesitant to embrace this new culinary concept. However, perseverance paid off as word-of-mouth began attracting patrons from beyond San Basilio.

"I never gave up," Davide shares. "Even when I had to throw away food at night because it didn’t sell." His dedication ultimately led to success as more customers discovered the unique flavors of Martello BBQ.

FAQs about Martello BBQ

What makes Martello BBQ’s pastrami special?

Martello BBQ’s pastrami is prepared using traditional methods involving extensive brining and smoking processes that enhance flavor and tenderness.

Where can I find Martello BBQ?

You can visit Martello BBQ at Via Nicola Maria Nicolai, 13 – 00156 Roma.

Are there vegetarian options available?

While primarily focused on meats, they may offer sides or specials that cater to vegetarian preferences; it’s best to check their menu or ask upon arrival.

Conclusion: A Culinary Destination Worth Visiting

In just a short time since opening, Martello BBQ has carved out its niche in Rome’s culinary scene thanks to Davide Ceccarelli’s unwavering passion for great food. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure you stop by this remarkable establishment for an unforgettable dining experience centered around exquisite barbecue flavors. As Davide himself dreams of exploring American cuisine further—particularly tasting New York’s famous pastrami—one can only imagine how his culinary journey will continue to evolve right here in Rome.

Photo by Manuel Silva on Unsplash