Lele’s Roman: A Taste of Trastevere in the Heart of Brooklyn

Discover Lele’s Roman at Ace Hotel Brooklyn—a modern culinary tribute to the soulful Trastevere neighborhood of Rome. Enjoy classic Italian dishes, a curated amaro selection, and a charming ambiance inspired by Roman hospitality.

Editor

May 16, 2025 - 03:42

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Lele’s Roman: A Taste of Trastevere in the Heart of Brooklyn

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Introduction:

Brooklyn is no stranger to innovation and diversity, especially when it comes to food. But nestled within the Ace Hotel Brooklyn is a unique culinary gem that transports diners straight to the cobbled streets of Trastevere, Rome’s bohemian district. Lele’s Roman is more than just another Italian eatery—it’s a curated homage to one of Italy’s most beloved neighborhoods.

From the aromatic pastas to the robust amaro-based cocktails, Lele’s Roman provides an immersive experience of Roman culture through food, atmosphere, and hospitality.

A Slice of Trastevere in Brooklyn

The Location & Ambience

Situated inside the Ace Hotel Brooklyn, Lele’s Roman boasts a bright and inviting atmosphere that mirrors the relaxed elegance of Rome’s Trastevere district. With high ceilings, earthy tones, and a fusion of classic Roman design and modern Brooklyn charm, the space strikes a perfect balance between cozy and chic.

Whether you're here for a power breakfast, a lingering lunch, or an intimate dinner, the restaurant's layout accommodates every occasion. Large windows let in abundant natural light during the day, while ambient lighting in the evening offers a warm, romantic glow.

The Menu: Timeless Roman Flavors with a Modern Twist

At Lele’s Roman, the menu is a flavorful journey through Italy, particularly emphasizing dishes from the Roman region. Let’s break down what you can expect:

Breakfast with Italian Soul

The breakfast offerings are far from your usual fare. The Artichoke Frittata is a must-try—light yet indulgent, with perfectly tender artichokes folded into fluffy eggs and topped with shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Pair it with a side of focaccia and one of their rich espresso drinks, and you’re set for a delightful start to your day.

Lunch & Dinner Classics

Lunch and dinner menus at Lele’s Roman are a culinary celebration of simplicity and tradition.

Rigatoni all’Amatriciana: One of Rome’s iconic pasta dishes, this plate features al dente rigatoni coated in a savory sauce made from guanciale (cured pork cheek), tomatoes, and pecorino cheese. The depth of flavor is remarkable.
Pizza Margherita: Their take on this Neapolitan classic is both traditional and elevated. A crispy, charred crust with a chewy center forms the perfect base for sweet San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara also make frequent appearances, each prepared with precision and respect for Roman culinary traditions.

The Amaro Experience: An Ode to Italian Spirits

Lele’s Roman doesn’t just excel in food—it shines equally bright in its drink offerings, especially its amaro list. Amaro, a traditional Italian herbal liqueur, is integral to the dining culture in Rome.

The bar at Lele’s carries an extensive and carefully selected list of amari from various regions of Italy, offering everything from bitter to sweet and complex notes.

Standouts Include:

Amaro Montenegro – A smooth, versatile classic.
Fernet-Branca – For those who love bold, medicinal notes.
Averna – Rich, dark, and slightly citrusy.
Cynar – Artichoke-based and surprisingly refreshing.

Guests can enjoy these straight, with soda, or in artful cocktails crafted by the talented mixologists behind the bar.

Why Lele’s Roman is a Must-Visit

Authenticity Meets Modern Brooklyn Vibe

While authenticity is the heart of the experience, the delivery is refreshingly modern. The service is casual yet attentive. The presentation is elegant without being overdone. It’s clear the team at Lele’s Roman cares deeply about preserving tradition while adapting to the sensibilities of a contemporary Brooklyn crowd.

Vibrant Weekend Brunch

Weekend brunches are particularly popular here. Alongside breakfast frittatas and Roman pastries, you’ll find:

Italian-style pancakes
House-made ricotta with figs
Bottomless mimosas with Italian prosecco

The brunch crowd includes a mix of neighborhood locals, hotel guests, and foodies from across the city—all seeking a genuine Italian experience without boarding a flight.

Sustainability and Seasonal Ingredients

Lele’s Roman also takes pride in sourcing ingredients responsibly. Many of their vegetables, herbs, and dairy products come from local farms in New York and neighboring states. Their olive oils, tomatoes, and specific meats are imported from Italy, ensuring that quality and authenticity are never compromised.

The seasonal menu rotates often, giving regulars new dishes to look forward to while honoring what's fresh and available.

Private Events and Reservations

Looking to host an event or a celebratory dinner? Lele’s Roman offers private dining options for small gatherings. Whether it’s a birthday, corporate event, or rehearsal dinner, the team curates a tailored experience complete with wine pairings and custom menus.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings and brunch.

Final Thoughts: Roman Passion in Every Bite

Lele’s Roman is not just another Italian restaurant. It’s a thoughtful culinary experience that transports you to Rome’s charming alleyways and bustling trattorias. With its dedication to tradition, impressive menu, and inviting environment, it’s a standout in Brooklyn’s crowded dining scene.

Whether you’re an Italian food aficionado or just exploring, a visit to Lele’s Roman offers a slice of Trastevere that will linger in your memory long after the last bite.