"Ah Freni e Frizioni, the famed cocktail establishment with an impressive aperitivo spread. You've heard about it from every travel influencer out there and even if you haven't, you would very likely stumble onto it when strolling around Trastevere at aperitivo'clock. It's an impressive space with soaring ceilings and chandeliers. Huge outdoor patio. You would never pass it by because it's so cool. I've been twice, once during late COVID times when they couldn't have their famous spread out for people to help themselves (you were able to order some things but we didn't) and once in late February 2024. First time, we liked it enough, like I said, cool atmosphere, good drinks, not expensive. It didn't leave enough of an impression to leave a review so here we are now. Service is really nice, definitely rushed but hello, the place is packed so I hardly expect white glove service. As is typical in Italy, getting out of there took a while, so your best bet is to approach staff with your card ready to pay. They have hand-held devices. The aperitivo is crazy cheap. That said, don't expect what you see in Youtube videos. It ain't that. To be honest, I'd rather pay more that whatever it is (I think 3 Euro if you buy a drink) and get some quality items. The bread was so hard and stale, I almost spit it out and the hummus was just not good. Again, so cheap that you barely care but it's rare that I've had an aperitivo that I'd call inedible and many places offer complimentary bites that they bring to the table which I much prefer. I may be in the minority. This place gets very packed. I love how creative they are with cocktails (their menus are really fun) and my glass of wine was AOK."
Insalata Di Quinoa
