Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
In Rome, the quintessential breakfast often revolves around two beloved items: a creamy cappuccino and a freshly baked maritozzo con la panna. This combination is a true Roman tradition, offering a delicious start to the day that perfectly captures the city’s culinary spirit.
Cappuccino: The Art of the Perfect Cup
A cappuccino is much more than just coffee with milk. This iconic Italian beverage is made by combining a shot of espresso with steamed milk and a layer of frothy foam on top. The key to a great cappuccino lies in the balance—rich, dark coffee meets creamy milk in a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and energizing.
But why is it called a cappuccino? The name is said to be inspired by the Capuchin friars (Cappuccini in Italian), whose robes were a similar color to the drink. Another theory is that the foam on top resembles the friars’ distinctive hoods.
One of the most persistent myths about cappuccino is that it should never be consumed after noon. While it’s true that Italians generally drink cappuccino in the morning, there’s no hard and fast rule against enjoying it later in the day. This belief likely stems from the idea that milk-based drinks can be too heavy for digestion after meals, but in reality, you can enjoy a cappuccino whenever you please—especially when it’s as good as the one we serve at QuodLibet B&B.
Maritozzo con la Panna: A Sweet Roman Delight
The maritozzo is a sweet, soft bun filled with fresh whipped cream (panna). This decadent treat has ancient origins, dating back to the Roman Empire, where it was originally made with honey and dried fruit. The modern version, however, is a simpler, yet equally indulgent, delight.
The name “maritozzo” comes from the word “marito,” meaning husband in Italian. According to tradition, these buns were given by grooms to their brides-to-be as a symbol of love, often with a small ring or piece of jewelry hidden inside. Today, maritozzi are enjoyed by everyone, especially in the morning as a luxurious breakfast item.
Finding a truly good maritozzo can be a challenge, but Pasticceria Parenti in Via Ottaviano is one of the best places in Rome to try this traditional treat. Parenti has been a staple in the Prati district for years, known for their high-quality pastries and, of course, their famous maritozzi. They fill the bun with freshly whipped cream, ensuring that each bite is light, airy, and utterly delicious.
Why We Don’t Serve Maritozzo at QuodLibet
At QuodLibet B&B, we pride ourselves on offering a delicious and satisfying breakfast, but you won’t find maritozzi on our menu. The reason is simple: to truly enjoy a maritozzo, the whipped cream must be fresh, and the bun should be filled just before serving. This ensures that the cream maintains its light texture and doesn’t soak into the bun. For this reason, we recommend enjoying your maritozzo at a local bar or pasticceria where they can prepare it to perfection. However, our cappuccino is always available, and it’s one of the most popular items among our guests—rich, creamy, and made with the same care and attention that you’d find in any Roman café.
Whether you’re starting your day with a cappuccino and maritozzo, or simply enjoying a moment of relaxation with a cup of coffee on our terrace, we at QuodLibet are here to make sure your Roman mornings are as delightful as possible.
