265874 Sun Apr 17 15:01:58 -0700 2005 2 26 International 0 1402984 We're travelling to Rome and Florence in about a month and are trying to pick one or two great places in Rome and one great place in Florence. Based on a bunch of posts here, we're leaning towards Agata e Romeo and La Giostra. Other meals will likely be chosen by the wander-around-and-see-where-the-locals-eat method. Any recent experiences in these two places? Any better suggestions? By the way, I'm a vegetarian, so great pasta is more important than fish, meat, etc. Sun Apr 17 15:01:58 -0700 2005 0 Richard 1 1403020 I was in Rome a few weeks ago and the two high-end places I enjoyed the most were La Pergola and Il Convivio. I did go to Agata e Romeo and though the food was good, I did not think it was great...especially at their prices. I thought it was very (outrageously) overpriced for the meal and the experience. In Florence, I liked Beccofino very much...although it is not traditional Italian. I would call it more cosmopolitan. In any case, I definitely recommend staying away from Enoteca Pinchiorri. I have never felt so completely ripped-off in my life. Mon Apr 18 16:31:31 -0700 2005 1402984 0 Sue Veed 1 1403023 Have been to both in the past year. In Rome, I do concur that the number one over the top blowout meal to be had is at La Pergola. This is, however, a very, very formal place, and not Italian, but more mediterranian (sp?) in flavor. From a fine dining experience it's like going to Per Se in NYC or Taillevent in Paris. A + G provided an absolutely delicious meal, a bit more "Italian" in flavor. It's also very quiet at lunch, where the food is the same quality but less expensive. We did enjoy A + G very much. Although it's sounds a bit simple, the best places for you to go as a vegetarian in my opinion are Piperno in the old jewish ghetto (their fritto misto vegetariano is UNBELIEVABLE) and, of course, it's just not a trip to Rome without Pizzeria Baffeto (go early, no later than 7:00 to avoid the crowds) for THE. BEST. PIZZA. EVER. Also don't miss Gelateria San Crispino near the Trevi Fountain! In Florence, our favorite place is La Giostra, hands down. We've done Cibreo, we've done Enoteca P., but we will always love La Giostra. Absolutely go there. I'm jealous - have a marvelous trip! Mon Apr 18 17:49:45 -0700 2005 1402984 0 MATSON JONES