Cresci
A casual Italian restaurant and cocktail bar near the Vatican, known for its artisanal bakery, local menu, and unique twists on classic dishes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Cresci
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A casual Italian restaurant and cocktail bar near the Vatican, known for its artisanal bakery, local menu, and unique twists on classic dishes.
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and ensure better service by visiting during less busy times.
Try the tapas deal
Sample a variety of dishes at a good price with the tapas small plates deal.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+39 06 5184 2694
Address
Via Alcide de Gasperi, 11-17, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisanal Bread and Pastries
Experience freshly baked artisanal bread and delectable pastries, a highlight for locals and visitors alike.
Tapas and Small Plates
Savor a selection of Italian tapas, with roast beef and squid highlighted as must-try options.
Authentic Italian Pasta Dishes
Enjoy a range of classic Italian pasta dishes, with many diners praising the quality and taste.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and ensure better service by visiting during less busy times.
Try the tapas deal
Sample a variety of dishes at a good price with the tapas small plates deal.
Learn basic Italian phrases
Facilitate communication with staff by using basic Italian phrases or a translation app.
Don't miss the pizza
Be surprised by the exceptional taste of their renowned pizza.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and ensure better service by visiting during less busy times.
Try the tapas deal
Sample a variety of dishes at a good price with the tapas small plates deal.
Learn basic Italian phrases
Facilitate communication with staff by using basic Italian phrases or a translation app.
Don't miss the pizza
Be surprised by the exceptional taste of their renowned pizza.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cresci offers a delightful mix of traditional and modern Italian cuisine, praised for its artisanal bread, pastries, and flavorful pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe. While many enjoy the food and ambiance, some diners have experienced issues with slow service and inconsistent attention, particularly if they are perceived as tourists. The tapas selection is also a highlight, though some critique the inclusion of fries and croquettes in this category.
"A Hidden Gem near San Pietro at Vatican City: The Perfect Italian Breakfast at Cresci
Stumbling upon Cresci was a delightful surprise during my quest for a classic Italian cornetto and coffee. What I found was so much more than I expected—it's a true gem.
The moment you walk in, you're greeted by a spectacular charcuterie and preserved goods section that makes you want to buy everything. The selection and quality are top-notch, clearly a point of pride for the establishment.
But the real star of the show is the cornetto. We tried the cherry-filled one and a plain one, and they were out of this world—flaky, buttery, and fresh. Paired with a delicious coffee, it was an absolutely perfect start to the day. They also have an impressive and well-priced selection of sandwiches.
Cresci is a place that is absolutely worth a visit. It's the perfect combination of quality, flavor, and value. I'll definitely be back on my next trip to Rome!"
M. Venegas
"The atmosphere: nice and elegant, great for dates
The menu online: is outdated, with lower prices.
The food: extensive menu, great things to chose and share.
Selection of Tapas: selection of 10, most of them were good, especially the roastbeef and the squid. Serving french fries as tapas, and 3cm croquet as a separate tapas was not considerate.
Pasta Stracci all’uovo: pasta with ragú, pasta seemed overcooked, it was not al dente. Maybe that type of pasta was supposed to be soft?
Tiramisu: not traditional version, modernised, the creme was more than the biscuit.
Our overall experience was good, hence we rate 4 star."
Gohar Soghoyan
"This place is an absolute gem, locals recommend & fresh pastries, amazing coffee, worth coming in. However, one member of staff (Asian lady with a black bow) super rude and ruined the whole experience and atmosphere. I understood she didn’t speak much English but welcomed us with a horrible look on her face and swore at us in Italian when we picked up our own coffee. The rest of staff explained coffee is brought to the table, so next time we knew. Sadly our first day she completely ruined the vibe. Beware :) rest of the staff is lovely."
Barbara Vu Thien
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Cresci is known for its artisanal bread, pastries, a mix of traditional and modern Italian cuisine, tapas, and cocktails. It's also praised for being a great breakfast spot near the Vatican.
While specific dietary accommodation details are not explicitly provided, the menu features pasta dishes and vegetable options that may be suitable for vegetarians. It's recommended to inquire directly with the staff.
One reviewer mentioned struggling with a stroller due to the lack of a ramp, suggesting it might be challenging for those with strollers. It's advisable to check accessibility beforehand.
Consider trying the tapas small plates for a variety of dishes. Also, don't miss out on their renowned pizza.
Reservations are mentioned by reviewers, but some also experienced issues with table allocation despite having one. It might be wise to book ahead, but be prepared for potential variations.
Service can be a mixed bag, with some diners praising friendly and helpful staff, while others report inattentive or even rude service, especially if they are perceived as tourists.
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Cresci: Fine Dining meets Tasty & Affordable Near the Vatican
Cresci is a modern twist on your mom’s home style Italian cooking: the intersection of the old and the new, where fine dining meets tasty and affordable. Located in close proximity to the Vatican, Cresci is the brainchild of Danilo Frisone and Saverio Crevente, owners of the Grano restaurant, a popular establishment serving tasty Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant was designed by architect Roberto Liorni who with his attention to detail helped to create a friendly, inviting atmosphere in this historic building which also rocks a fun, classic interior.
Where to Eat Near the Vatican
Forno Cresci is a rare gem on this side of the Vatican en route from Saint Peter’s Basilica and Stazione San Pietro train station, always crammed with tourists no matter what month of the year and what time of the day. This area, in fact, is not exactly home to the best restaurants near the Vatican, but Forno Cresci is an exception. One of the best panettone in Rome, Forno Cresci dishes out all your meals from breakfast to after-dinner cocktails.
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