The chickens roasting on the spit in the center of the dining room are a bit out of keeping with the clean lines and shelves full of wine at Molto, but the tasty birds are big demand at this Roman eatery. Also on the menu are tagliolini with octopus and tasty-looking cheese plate.

Hard to top this place, elevation wise. In the Hassler Hotel atop the Spanish Steps, the restaurant offers scrumptious views of the city and serves a menu of internationally-influenced Italian food. The chef, 33-year-old Francesco Apreda, plays favorites with his cooking -- his choice dish is The Capesante, breaded scallops with mozzarella, celery and black truffle.

Why have one casa when you can have two? These intimate, stylishly decorated hotels of five rooms each are both located close to the Spanish Steps and done up in bright colors and floral fabrics, putting themselves firmly outside of the wilting violet school of décor.

If you ever wanted to be one of the big wigs at a film festival, here is your chance, Mr. DeMille! This is one of the more unique film festivals, as the films are judged by a selection of film goers from across Europe, rather than a selected jury. With the entire city of Rome as the dramatic backdrop for the festival, the main venue is the stunningly designed Auditorium Parco della Musica, by Renzo Piano. Be sure to get your tickets early online, as events sell out quickly.

Whether you are staying at the Hotel de Russie, or in the neighborhood between shopping or exploring, take a break and stop into the Stravinskji Bar. The stylish interior is well balanced by the delightful garden courtyard, and either offer the ideal spot for a cocktail. Our favorite is the Americano! And, true to form, they provide a delightful mix of nibbles and snacks. So settle in, relax, and enjoy!

Take a seat at an outdoor table at this wine bar and restaurant and you will have two angels from nearby Ponte Vittorio Emmanuel watching over you. And the staff looks after you as well. English is spoken here and orders are filled promptly. The lunch menu surprisingly includes a very tasty veggie burger that comes with grilled zucchini, eggplant and roasted rosemary potato pieces. Sit back, relax and enjoy a good meal here alongside the Tiber river. Afterwards you can stroll alongside the river or to nearby Castel Sant' Angelo, the Vatican, or St. Peter's.