Italian designer Bottega Veneta and the St. Regis Grand Hotel (http://www.starwoodhotels.com) have unveiled a chic new three-bedroom suite, a fourth-floor corner space that's full of light and accented with the woven leather goods for which BV is known.
Its three marble bathrooms and living room are floored in natural gray stone, and beautiful old chairs have been upholstered with rough linen and suede; these touches are mixed with leather furniture and contemporary touches by BV Creative Director Tomas Maier for a combination of contemporary style and Roman tradition that produces a restful ambiance. Contact Vincenzo Falcone ([email protected]), rooms division manager, to reserve.
Hotel Hassler's (http://www.hotelhasslerroma.com) top-floor Imago restaurant celebrated its first birthday by introducing an extended wine list featuring more than 160 new labels, a water menu complete with suggested food pairings, and salt and tea menus. For VIP bookings, contact Valentina Caniglia ([email protected]). Spiriti & Forme (Vicolo Scaolino), a new wine-and-cheese venue near the Trevi fountain, touts a sophisticated atmosphere and fun cheese menus that are named after artists. Our Tiziano arrived with five cheeses (including a grappa) and several piquant sauces, along with warm foccacia and crusty Roman bread. The waitstaff is well-versed in wines and will suggest something from the bottles that line the walls. Rome's Vittorio Emanuele II monument now offers what is probably the best view of the city from a public facility. Its glass elevator whisks visitors to the roof, where there's something to gasp about in every direction. Halfway down, stop at the bar and cafe for a glass or wine or cappuccino.