It is hard to imagine a more spectacular setting than the one at Aroma. Occupying the top floor of the Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – a seventeenth century multi-storey villa built on the archaeological remains of a gladiator barracks – the restaurant overlooks the dome of St Peter’s Basilica and the Roman Colosseum, which is just a six minute walk away. Perfect for a romantic meal or special occasion, head chef Giuseppe di Iorio has crafted a sophisticated menu that is equal to its breathtaking location. With such a winning combination, it was no surprise that Aroma was awarded a Michelin star in 2015.

Although technically a hotel-restaurant, Aroma is open to all seven days a week. The one exception to this is breakfast, which is reserved for hotel guests only. The menu is built around the finest local ingredients, which are brought back from the local Roman markets every day. Diners will be treated to a number of intriguing dishes such as Coffee-marinated codfish, Octopus in a glass with parsley foam and Boiled cheek of veal with grapefruit sauce and curry chips. There are two tasting menus; one showcasing Giuseppe’s unique creations and another comprised of regional specialities. Fortunately for diners, dishes from both tasting menus are available on the à la carte menu, allowing guests to experience the best of both culinary worlds.

When it comes to wine, guests are spoilt for choice – head sommelier Martin Pechev has assembled a wine cellar of 400 labels. This includes wines from all over Italy and an interesting selection of New World wines, certain to excite the most seasoned of connoisseurs. Sophisticated cocktails and Champagnes are also available at the restaurant’s trendy American bar, where guests are invited to relax with their chosen tipple on Palazzo Manfredi’s spectacular outdoor terrace.