Where to get your chocolate fix in Rome: Said dal 1923

Confession time: I *might* be a little addicted to the hot chocolate at SAID dal 1923. If you’ve ever experienced the wonder that is Italian dark hot chocolate that comes out more like a pudding than a liquid, you know exactly what I’m talking about. The kind of hot chocolate that keeps you up at night and makes you long for the winter months when it’s socially appropriate to drink.

Now I’ve already dedicated a couple of posts to my love of Italian hot chocolate (a general love note here and my quick-and-dirty option at Pasticceria Valentini) but I thought this obsession of mine could use some more air time on my blog. And today I’m featuring Said dal 1923 because it holds the place of honor as the OLDEST chocolate factory in Rome. Considering that Rome is quite ancient, I’d say that’s an impressive feat. Plus, not only do they have amazing cioccolata calda and artisanal chocolates, but their savory lunch/dinner options are actually pretty great too.

The decor

The interiors at Said are every Instagrammer’s dream. Fun, with plenty of comfy places to sit and relax. There’s a huge window looking into the chocolate-making space where the magic happens, plenty of old-school chocolate molds scattered around and a greenery-filled atrium perfect for a lunch date.

All in all, it’s a great place to head to for lunch or a mid-afternoon treat and take a few pics for the ‘gram. What more can you ask for?

The food

The menu here features a variety of contemporary Italian dishes, with some international flavors as well. I’ve only tried the pasta before but there are also plenty of salad, meat and fish options. Everything tastes super fresh and has a creative spin, like the ravioli with dark chocolate that I’m definitely trying the next time I go for lunch.

You can also drop by for a late-night drink and try one of the interesting cocktails they have on the menu until 1:30 am on the weekends!

The dessert

There’s not much to say about SAID’s desserts other than “save room for dessert” 100% applies here. Their individual desserts are lovely but I prefer choosing some of their decadent chocolates to finish off the meal or coming in for hot chocolate (of course) with a plate of chocolate-drizzled biscotti. Heaven.

If you’re feeling generous, they can also box up an assortment of chocolates for you to take home and share with a friend orrr eat by yourself in bed.

Logistics

The reason I don’t think SAID is as popular in guide books and lists of what to do in Rome is that it’s not located in the center. But their location in San Lorenzo makes it feel all the more hipstery, exclusive and a real treat-yourself moment when you do make it over there. San Lorenzo is very close to Termini so if you’re staying somewhere near the station (The Beehive Hostel I’m looking at you!) it’s very accessible. Otherwise, a tram or bus is the way to go and you can take one from almost any part of the city. (Trams 3 and 19 will drop you off right near by).

It’s closed on Mondays, but every other day of the week you can get your chocolate fix from 10:00 am-12:30 a.m or weekends from 12 pm-1:30 am

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