What does a Michelin Star signify?

A Michelin Star is a prestigious accolade given to dining establishments that exhibit exceptional culinary skills. Five key considerations govern this award: the standard of the ingredients used, the balance and blend of tastes, the proficiency in culinary methods, the chef's unique touch reflected in their dishes, and the uniformity within all dishes on the menu as well as its sustained quality over time.

A one-star rating indicates that the restaurant is considered "very good," while two stars signify "excellent cooking that is worth going out of your way for." Finally, a three-star restaurant is one that offers "exceptional cuisine that is worth making a special trip for."

La Pergola (Michelin Stars: 3)

La Pergola boasts Rome's most celebrated roof garden and is known as Italy's most international dining spot. From its terrace, the city looks timeless. Inside, it's all about quiet luxury, with plush carpets, shiny silverware, and beautiful art creating the perfect backdrop for the amazing views. Chef Heinz Beck cooks up classic, beloved dishes like carbonara-filled "fagottelle" and seasonal treats like turbot with wild garlic sauce. Don't miss out on the cheese cart or the heavenly chocolate soufflé. And the wine? There are two lists—one for Italian wines and another for global selections, both curated by the talented sommelier Marco Reitano.

Head Chef: 

Heinz Beck has been charmed by Italy, touching Sicily with his heart and Rome with his mind. Since 1994, he's been at La Pergola, hardly ever going back to his native Bavaria. He's been running this unique restaurant, which shines especially at night, for over eleven years.

Famous For: 

Its sculptural flower arrangements, romantic views of St Peter's Basilica, and exotic wall murals. La Pergola was the first in Rome to snag three Michelin stars—and it's still the only one in the city with that honor.

Enoteca La Torre (Michelin Stars: 2)

Just beyond the ancient Aurelian Walls, you'll find Enoteca La Torre nestled inside the grand Hotel Villa Laetitia. This place is all about elegance, with its vintage furniture, blooming flowers, and classic columns. The food here? Just as fancy. Imagine having a giant babà dessert prepared right at your table! Chef Domenico Stile pours his heart into every dish, celebrating his home region of Campania with flair and imagination. He's a pro at Mediterranean flavors but doesn't forget to add a Roman touch to the menu. It's a feast for any food lover, complete with an impressive wine cellar that's got the perfect drink to go with your meal.

Head Chef: 

Domenico Stile was born in Gragnano in 1989 and has quickly become one of Italy's youngest chefs to earn two Michelin stars. Before taking over Enoteca La Torre in February 2016, he sharpened his skills in top-notch places like Alinea in Chicago and with famous Italian chefs. His cooking is solid, inspired by his Neapolitan roots, and he loves to play with seafood flavors, mixing tradition with modern twists.

Famous For: 

Being one of Rome's most stunning restaurants, serving up flavorful and inventive dishes, and offering creative wine pairings.

Il Pagliaccio (Michelin Stars: 2)

Il Pagliaccio serves fusion cuisine that tells the chef's life story, blending Mediterranean tastes with Oriental touches—a rarity in Italy. The service, led by Matteo Zappile, is top-notch, and the champagne selection is impressive. This isn't your typical osteria; Chef Anthony Genovese creates a unique culinary style, drawing from his French, Calabrian, Japanese, Malaysian, and British experiences. You can try his distinctive dishes through various tasting menus, including a vegetarian option. Expect bold combinations like shrimp with coconut or lamb with caviar.

Head Chef: 

Anthony Genovese was born in France to a Calabrian family. He honed his craft in France and then traveled from Tokyo to London and Malaysia. With Italy always in his heart, he earned his first Michelin star in Ravello before opening Il Pagliaccio in Rome in 2003, which now boasts two Michelin stars.

Famous For: 

A unique blend of Calabrian, Japanese, Malaysian, and British influences in his cooking.

Acquolina (Michelin Stars: 2)

Acquolina is set on the ground floor of The First Roma hotel, surrounded by art pieces and sculptures. Here, fish is the star, served with Mediterranean flair and a dash of creativity. The dishes strike a perfect balance, like "mullet with duck heart" or "mushroom with snail." The service matches the quality of the food—efficient and discreet. And the wine list? Simply excellent.

Head Chef: 

Daniele Lippi, born in 1990, trained with the Troiani brothers and took the lead at Acquolina in 2019. He's worked with some of the best in the business, from Yannick Alléno in Paris to Enrico Crippa in Alba. His cooking weaves together meat and fish with Mediterranean finesse, earning Acquolina its second Michelin star in 2022.

Famous For: Artistic takes on modern Italian cuisine.

When you reserve accommodations through LuxRally Travel at a rate exceeding $750 per night, you gain exclusive access to our concierge services. These services are free and include assistance in securing reservations at highly coveted restaurants.