A formerly downtrodden, ethnically diverse neighborhood that became a haven for artists, writers, and musicians. An area across the river from the big city that developed a culture all its own. A district where historical reminders sit next to trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques. All are true of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, but also describe Trastevere in Rome.
It’s a comparison not lost on the Panella brothers, who, when location scouting for a second outpost of their Trastevere osteria, picked Williamsburg for its similarities. “They are both artsy, creative, and bohemian. Both are located on the other side of the river, separated from the big part of the city,” said Francesco Panella. “When we first visited Williamsburg almost 10 years ago, it wasn’t a destination yet, but we saw so much potential. Now it’s thriving and full of people who enjoy the arts, dining, culture, and history, just like in Trastevere.”
The Panellas were inspired to open a second restaurant in Williamsburg because of its similarities with Trastevere.
Courtesy of Antica Pesa
Francesco, Simone, and Lorenzo come from a long line of restaurateurs. After World War I, when Trastevere was one of the poorer neighborhoods in Rome, their ancestors began feeding hungry neighbors out of their home, using their dining room for prayers before meals and their backyard as a bocce court. In 1922, they decided to turn their humble project into a full-service restaurant and Antica Pesa was born.
Over the years, the intimate osteria has grown to be a neighborhood fixture. It’s been included in the Michelin Guide every year since 2009 and has welcomed everyone from U.S. presidents to international celebrities. Eager to capitalize on its success, Francesco, Simone, and Lorenzo opened a second location in Williamsburg in 2012, drawn to the area’s shared character with Trastevere.
A selection of Antica Pesa’s traditional Italian desserts
Courtesy of Antica Pesa
Today, Antica Pesa Williamsburg is as popular as its Roman cousin, drawing sophisticated diners with a mix of expertly prepared Italian dishes and more seasonal, experimental options. The Panella brothers, especially the mustachioed Lorenzo, can typically be found buzzing around the elegant space, greeting diners, dropping off a plate of spaghetti cacio e pepe, or pouring another glass of natural wine from Sicily.
When they’re not on site, however, they’re usually out enjoying Williamsburg or spending time back home in Trastevere. Below, they share their favorite places in each neighborhood, where you, too, can find a bit of la dolce vita.
Williamsburg Bars
Lorenzo: The Big Whiskey, The Whiskey Brooklyn, and The Whiskey Annex are my favorites. The owners are extremely hospitable and friendly; they run true neighborhood bars.
Francesco: I love Hotel Delmano. It’s a true neighborhood gem with a fantastic cocktail program.
Trastevere Bars
Simone: Pimm’s Good is a nice neighborhood pub for locals, Santo is a great cocktail bar with a lot of character, and Caffè delle Arance has outdoor seating and is located in one of the most historic squares in Trastevere.
Williamsburg Shopping
Francesco Panella likes shopping for fresh, local cuts at the Meat Hook in Williamsburg.
Courtesy of the Meat Hook
Lorenzo: Bedford Avenue has many cute shops, but I personally like Pema for [women’s] clothes, Red Pearl for knickknacks and gifts, and Amarcord for vintage and accessories. I also love the weekend farmers’ markets at McCarren Park and McGolrick Park in Greenpoint. Francesco: I love the vintage shopping in Williamsburg, especially 10 Ft Single by Stella Dallas on North Sixth Street because I can always find some of the most unique vintage pieces there. They also have a great selection of leather jackets. [For food], I enjoy spending time at North Brooklyn Farms, right next to Domino Park. It’s a great place for fresh produce and has amazing views of the skyline. I also frequent the Meat Hook in East Williamsburg for their selection of fresh meats from farms in the tristate area; they’re very knowledgeable about the best cuts to use for certain recipes.
Trastevere Shopping
Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood is filled with quaint restaurants, stores, and markets.
Photo by DavidMG/Shutterstock
Francesco: I like Scala Quattordici; you can get handmade suits there. Piazza San Cosimato is also a nice area to explore, with various shops and boutiques. There’s a cute children’s store there called Nati Nudi. Simone: Antica Spezieria is an old pharmacy and Innocenzi is a famous spice shop. In San Cosimato square, every day except Sundays, you can also find a great neighborhood farmers’ market.
Williamsburg Sites
Lorenzo: In Williamsburg, we have amazing views of the city from our shoreline. We also have quite a few nice parks; one of them [East River State Park] hosts Smorgasburg, which is an outdoor food market in the warmer months.
Francesco: I love to stroll through East Williamsburg, where there is a large Italian American community with lots of history. I always make sure to stop and pick up pastries at Fortunato Brothers Café.
Trastevere Sites
Lorenzo: Go to the Gianicolo, a hill overlooking Trastevere, for amazing views of all of Roma.
>>Next: Plan Your Trip With AFAR’s Travel Guide to Rome
