The already very awesome Centocelle district in eastern Rome got even better in November when the much-loved and long-established Lazio-centric alimentari DOL (Di Origine Laziale) outgrew its original location and moved down the block. DOL, which specializes in products from the supremely under-appreciated region of Lazio, has reopened as Pro Loco DOL. In addition to selling cured meats, cheeses, legumes, olive oils and other products from the region’s best small producers, Pro Loco DOL also serves lunch, aperitivo and dinner.
When you enter, you immediately encounter a well-stocked deli case displaying Lazio’s cheese and cured meat bounty: fiocco della Tuscia, prosciutto di Bassiano, conciato di San Vittore and even Mangalitza ham. The selection, which is curated DOL’s tireless and passionate owner Vincenzo Mancino, is the most important collection of artisanal products from Lazio in town. Even Roscioli, La Tradizione and (gag*) Volpetti are out of the loop when it comes this region’s specialties. Pro Loco DOL also stocks rabbits and birds from Cibo Libero, the farm inside Rome’s Rebibbia prison run by female inmates.
To the left of the deli counter, the kitchen bakes bread and pizza in collaboration with Gabriele Bonci who uses flour made by Lazio-based Molino Iaquone. This is also where dishes are prepared for the dining room. Check the chalkboard for the day’s menu listings, usually a few each of antipasti, primi, secondi, contorni and dolci. There are also pizzas and dedicated vegan options. The wine list combines local picks, as well as some traditional and natural wines from all over Italy.
Getting there is super easy. Just take the trenino Roma – Giardinetti, Tram 5, Tram 19 or the 105 bus to Centocelle, then walk to Via Panaroli 35. Buses 558, 412, 213 and 542 also stop nearby. If you drive, the parking lot at Via delle Robinie 11b is free for Pro Loco DOL customers. Pro Loco DOL is open Mon-Sat from 8:30am-midnight.
Stay up to date on Pro Loco DOL’s products and events via their blog, website and Facebook page.
*No, I don’t want to buy a white truffle and get that goddamned aged balsamic out of my face!
