Stazione Centrale Termini, the main railway station in Rome, has recently undergone a remarkable transformation, and it’s not what you would expect. The station, which was once considered a dingy and unappealing place, has now been turned into a massive food court, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
The project, which took several years to complete, was initiated by the station’s management in response to the growing demand for quality food options in the area. With the station serving as a hub for transportation across the city and the country, it was only logical to offer a wide range of food options for travelers, and the rehaul of the station made it possible.
The new food court occupies a large part of the station, covering over 10,000 square meters. The space is divided into different areas, each with its own unique design and culinary offerings. The project aimed to showcase the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Italy while also introducing international cuisine to the mix.
The food court is home to over 40 restaurants and bars, serving everything from traditional Italian dishes to gourmet burgers, sushi, and artisanal pizzas. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, a hearty meal, or a gourmet dining experience.
One of the unique features of the food court is its design, which pays homage to the history and architecture of the station. The industrial elements of the station, such as its steel columns and high ceilings, have been preserved and incorporated into the design of the food court. The space is now a mix of contemporary and vintage styles, creating a unique and memorable atmosphere.
Tripadvisor reviewers have praised the quality and variety of the food on offer, with many commenting on the quality of the carbonara and other traditional Roman dishes. The food hall has been designed to cater to a range of tastes and preferences, with counters serving Italian, Neapolitan, Campanian, Sicilian and other regional specialties. In addition to the food, visitors can enjoy the unique ambiance of the market, with its old-world charm and bustling atmosphere.
The market is characterized by its diverse and changing space, which is expressed through the experiences and knowledge of the community. Each shop in the market is designed uniquely using materials such as wood, iron, ceramic, and marble, and the artisans who run the shops are the real protagonists of the market. They have a deep understanding of their products and are best equipped to share their qualities and strengths with customers.
The market is located in the former after-work railway area, historically a place of gathering and sharing, and it has been given a new lease on life through the Mercato Centrale Roma project. The market features a central area called Cappa Mazzoniana, which is made of Portuguese marble and was created by architect Angiolo Mazzoni in the 1930s. The area is decorated with CERAUNAVOLTA, a suspended decorative glass element created by Edmondo Testaguzza and Matteo Ugolini.
The market has an array of vendors that offer a variety of products. Gabriele Bonci is a well-known pastry chef who provides customers with different types of bread, croissants, cookies, and pizza. Roberto Liberati is an expert in meat and offers a range of organic meat products, poultry, and more. Edoardo Galluzzi selects the best fish from Anzio, Terracina, Gallipoli, Mazara del Vallo, and Porto Santo Stefano, while Martino Bellicampi serves up traditional fried food and pastasciutta. Egidio Michelis offers fresh pasta, including traditional stuffed pasta like ravioli and tortellini. Alessandro Conti provides fresh vegetables, and Gabriele La Rocca offers a range of mushrooms. Pierangelo Fanti is the chocolatier of the market, and his store is decorated with fresh flowers. The final vendor is Luca Veralli, who provides customers with natural gelato and sorbet.
In conclusion, the transformation of Stazione Centrale Termini into a food court has breathed new life into this historic location. The Mercato Centrale Roma project has created a space where travelers and locals alike can enjoy a wide range of culinary offerings while immersing themselves in the rich history and architecture of the station. From traditional Italian cuisine to international flavors, the market caters to a range of tastes and preferences, and the unique design of the space adds to the overall experience. With over 40 restaurants and bars, the market is a foodie’s heaven and a must-visit destination in Rome.