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
New Year’s Eve in Italy is not just a celebration—it’s an experience deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and culinary indulgence. Known as the Cenone di Capodanno (literally, the “big dinner”), this festive meal is the centrepiece of Italian New Year’s Eve celebrations, and in Rome, it’s an occasion that blends ancient customs with modern flavours. Whether you’re visiting the Eternal City or curious about Italian traditions, here’s everything you need to know about this beloved feast.
The Meaning Behind the “Cenone”
The Cenone is more than just a dinner—it’s a ritual of abundance, prosperity, and good fortune. Italians believe that starting the new year with a lavish meal surrounded by loved ones brings luck and happiness for the months ahead. Each dish served during the Cenone has symbolic significance, often tied to age-old traditions.
The Traditional Menu
Italian families and restaurants take pride in crafting a New Year’s Eve menu that’s both rich in flavour and steeped in symbolism. Here are the key dishes you might find on the table during the Cenone:
- Lentils (Lenticchie): A must-have for the Cenone, lentils symbolize wealth and prosperity. Their coin-like shape is thought to bring financial luck in the coming year.
- Cotechino or Zampone: These rich pork sausages, often served alongside lentils, are a symbol of abundance and indulgence, perfect for ushering in the new year.
- Pasta and Seafood Dishes: Italians often include seafood on their New Year’s Eve menu, as it represents renewal and good luck. Spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or a rich seafood risotto are popular choices.
- Panettone or Pandoro: No Italian celebration is complete without one of these traditional Christmas desserts. Often accompanied by a glass of spumante (Italian sparkling wine), they provide a sweet note to end the year.
The Roman Twist
In Rome, the Cenone often includes local specialities like Carciofi alla Romana (Roman-style artichokes) and Saltimbocca alla Romana (veal with prosciutto and sage). Many Romans also embrace the city’s vibrant dining scene, where restaurants offer a range of options, from traditional fixed menus to à la carte dinners.
Dining Out in Rome on New Year’s Eve
If you’re spending New Year’s Eve in Rome, dining out is a fantastic way to experience the Cenone. At the same time, many restaurants prepare elaborate multi-course meals, not all adhere strictly to the tradition. Some offer flexible à la carte options, catering to those who prefer a lighter or more personalized dining experience.
Be sure to book your table in advance, as popular restaurants fill up quickly for the holiday. Whether you’re looking for a cosy trattoria or a fine dining experience, the Eternal City offers many choices to suit every taste.
A Toast to the New Year
As midnight approaches, the celebration shifts from the dinner table to the streets, where Romans gather to watch fireworks and toast the new year. A glass of spumante or prosecco is essential for the midnight toast, symbolizing joy and togetherness.
Experience the Cenone at QuodLibet
While we don’t host a Cenone at QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, we’re happy to recommend nearby restaurants where you can enjoy an authentic Roman New Year’s Eve dinner. Our central location in the Prati district makes it easy to access some of the best dining spots in Rome. Start your evening with a glass of wine on our terrace before heading out to celebrate in true Italian style.
