By Simon Thomsen
Chef Heinz Beck.
HEINZ BECK La Pergola, Rome
German-born Heinz Beck runs Rome's only Michelin three-star restaurant, as well as several other restaurants across Italy, plus Aspley's in London and Gusto in Algarve.
See heinzbeck.com
WHERE'S THE BEST TABLE IN ROME?
At La Pergola, of course, with the view over Rome spread out below you and the dome of St Peter's glowing in the evening light, perhaps enjoying the nine-course gourmet menu. And it's the Rome Cavalieri Hotel's 50th anniversary.
See romecavalieri.com/lapergola
THE LOCAL FOOD DISCOVERY OF THE PAST YEAR?
Cristina Bowerman at Romeo Chef & Baker. Born in Puglia, trained in America, she earned one star at Rome's Glass Hostaria and combines Italian tradition with a modern touch. Late last year, she opened this futuristic classy combination of baker, delicatessen and restaurant with one of Rome's best baking dynasties, the Roscioli brothers.
See romeo.roma.it
WHAT IS ROME'S BEST-KEPT FOOD SECRET?
San Lorenzo, a great fish restaurant near Campo dei Fiori. You can eat quickly and lightly at the bar before the open kitchen, enjoy wonderful raw fish or spaghetti with sea urchin in intimate rooms with chandeliers or in summer, outdoors.
See ilsanlorenzo.it
WHERE DO YOU GO FOR A BIG NIGHT OUT?
Everywhere - and the best way to do it is a Vespa tour of the city on a summer night.
WHAT'S HOT IN THE CITY RIGHT NOW?
The Jerry Thomas Project, a speakeasy-style bar named after the American who wrote The Bar-Tender's Guide in 1862. You need a password to get in to this cosy, red-walled, jazz-infused place (check the website) and it's cash only. Founder Adam Elmegirab makes his own bitters in Britain.
Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter
Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now.