On one of the main streets of Rome’s popular Travestere neighborhood is the venerable Checco er Carrettiere. A relic of days gone by and with a dining room at one time full of the rich and famous, the place was covered in signed black and white headshoots crammed between more black and whites of what could have been ripped from family photo albums. Old timey Italians seemed to literally hold the place up, but diners of all ages, locals, and tourists alike seemed to support the restaurant today. The expansive family dining room quickly filled as diners enjoyed heaping plates of pasta.

The restaurant offers a tasting menu that comes with carafes of the house wine for just 60 EUR. However, after sampling said wine, back to the menu it would be to order exactly as desired. Carbonara and a proper bottle of Tuscan red to start.

Followed by a lemon-y veal and just a the right amount of greasy chips. Thank goodness for fellow diners who help to share these calories.

Despite dessert being declined, the servers thrown down some homemade nibbles to cure any hint of a lingering sweet tooth.

The restaurant is well lit and quite busy, so not exactly romantic, but if you’re in the mood for some serious portions and bang for your buck, Checco is your place in Rome.