What Restaurant in Rome Invented Fettuccine?

By Anna Duncan

When it comes to pasta dishes, few are as beloved and iconic as fettuccine alfredo. This rich and creamy dish has become a staple in Italian cuisine, and its origins can be traced back to the city of Rome. But which restaurant in Rome can claim to have invented this delectable pasta creation?

The Birth of Fettuccine Alfredo

The birthplace of fettuccine alfredo is said to be a small restaurant called “Alfredo alla Scrofa” in Rome. Founded by Alfredo di Lelio in 1914, this eatery quickly gained popularity for its signature dish – fettuccine alfredo.

Bold flavors: The key ingredient that sets fettuccine alfredo apart is its luxurious sauce made from butter and Parmesan cheese. The sauce is tossed with fresh, homemade pasta, creating a decadent and indulgent experience for diners.

A Star Is Born

Fettuccine alfredo’s rise to fame can be attributed to two key factors: its taste and the celebrities who fell in love with it. Word spread quickly about the rich and creamy pasta dish, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Underlined influence: One of the earliest celebrity fans of fettuccine alfredo was Mary Pickford, a famous actress during the silent film era. Pickford visited Alfredo alla Scrofa during her honeymoon in 1927 and was so impressed by the dish that she brought the recipe back with her to Hollywood.

A Global Phenomenon

Fast forward a few decades, and fettuccine alfredo had become an international sensation. In part due to Mary Pickford’s endorsement, the dish gained popularity in the United States, where it was often served with grilled chicken or shrimp for added flavor and protein.

List of variations: Over time, chefs around the world began putting their own spin on fettuccine alfredo. Some added cream to the sauce for an even richer taste, while others incorporated ingredients like garlic or mushrooms to enhance the flavor profile. Regardless of these variations, the heart of fettuccine alfredo remains its smooth and velvety sauce.

The Legacy Lives On

Today, Alfredo alla Scrofa continues to serve its famous fettuccine alfredo recipe to locals and tourists alike. The restaurant has become a pilgrimage site for pasta lovers who want to experience the dish in its original birthplace.

Underlined impact: The success of fettuccine alfredo has also inspired countless Italian restaurants worldwide to include it on their menus. It has become a symbol of Italian culinary excellence and continues to be enjoyed by pasta enthusiasts around the globe.

In Conclusion

In summary, Alfredo di Lelio’s restaurant in Rome, Alfredo alla Scrofa, is widely credited with inventing fettuccine alfredo. This simple yet delicious dish has captivated taste buds for over a century and continues to be a favorite among pasta lovers everywhere.