Rome - Some Specific Questions

[jc4001x]

So it's been about 15 years since I've been to Rome. Can't wait to be there in a few weeks. I'd appreciate some help with some very basic and then specific questions:

1) LIGHT LUNCH: Unfortunately, my time is limited in Rome so I don't want a very long drawn out affair. What are the best options for a quick lunch. In Paris, of course one can get a jambon and frommage sandwich at a cafe. I'm guessing a pizzeria might be relatively quick for lunch?

2) HEAVIER LUNCH: It it completely inappropriate to simply order a salad and a pasta at lunch?

3) DINNER? Similarly...is it inappropriate to order antipasti and pasta and NOT a secondi?

4) Specific Spots: The Campo dei Fiori/Piazza Navona/Pantheon area is my favorite area in Rome. Any comments on Trattoria Fiammetta vs. Rosciolo vs. Vecchio Roma? Are reservations required at either of these spots - really looking for something relatively traditional..good value

5) Any comments on Trattoria Da Enzo in Trastavere? I'm debating about this spot vs. Paris in Trastavere (I gather Paris is quite a bit more upscale).

6) Are 1/2 bottles of wine common on wine menus?

THANKS!

[AstridR69]

To further mbfant's excellent advise: 4+6) Roscioli is a great place, very high quality. If you want to go there for dinner you HAVE TO make a reservation. And: Roscioli does offer one of the best (and widest) wine by the glass possibilities in town.

[mbfant]

1. Pizza al taglio and bars

2. If you order a pasta, then a salad, it's fine. (I.e., don't order them together)

3. It's fine.

4. Fiammetta is a trattoria, Roscioli is fashionable, very high-quality ingredients, Vecchia Roma more fancy, less value for money; most people like it but it's not very good

5. Depends what you want. I've never been to Enzo but from what I've heard it's a very basic low-down good trat. Paris is a mid-level ristorante, great if you want the Jewish fritti, but also fish and other things.

6. Not usually a lot of choice but something is usually available.

[jc4001x]

thanks for that! One more question -- is it best to visit the Testaccio market in the morning? I'd assume that it is in full swing by 8:00 a.m.?

[mbfant]

It is ONLY possible in the morning.