Old Bear

Old Bear is unlike anywhere else in Rome. Housed inside a 15th-century convent on Via dei Gigli d'Oro near Campo de' Fiori, it serves paella and sangria alongside pasta and raw seafood, a Spanish-Italian crossover that works surprisingly well in this ancient stone-walled setting.

For families with older children (roughly 5 and up), the experience is memorable in the way Rome's best restaurants often are: the setting is unlike anything you'd encounter elsewhere, the food is good, and the cozy atmosphere makes conversation easy. The paella arrives in a proper pan and is designed for sharing, which works well at a table of four. Younger toddlers may find the intimate, quieter setting less comfortable, but school-age kids typically love the theatrical presentation.

Old Bear is an evening restaurant only, open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM, closed on Sundays and Mondays. A reservation is essentially required; the space is small and fills up. Budget USD 75-110 for a family of four including a round of sangria or drinks. This is the kind of dinner that makes a Rome trip feel special.