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The book bars of Rome

Inspired by the literary cafés of Middle Europe and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where artists, writers, and intellectuals gather around coffee or beer, book bars are all the rage in Rome. Places both for culture and amusement, these literary cafés are enjoyed by both chic and hipsterish clients. For a plush spot to enjoy a good read and a hot drink or cocktail, try some of our favourite Roman book bars.

Baràbook de San Lorenzo

Located in the former headquarters of the Red Brigades, the Baràbook de San Lorenzo is a veritable neighbourhood institution. All the decoration is from the city’s flea markets; the atmosphere is retro and friendly, and the wine list is excellent. This hangout for the local philosophers and artists hosts concerts, readings, and DJ performances in the evenings.

Via dei Piceni, 23, 00185 Lazio

Salotto 42

The owner of this trendy bar on the Piazza di Pietra is a Swedish model. This is the place to have a Cosmopolitan while flipping through art, fashion, or cinema books. The decoration mixes art nouveau, 1950s armchairs, and Murano chandeliers. At night, wines and cocktails replace coffee, and Roman scenesters move in.

Piazza di Pietra, 42, 00186

Caffè Letterario

Caffè Letterario, in the Ostiense neighbourhood, was designed by architects Vincenzo Pultrone and Alfredo Caporale. Its more than a thousand square metres include a resto-bar, a reading area, art and design exhibits, and a video room. This welcoming, multifunctional space is always full of life, where patrons combine books, music, and ideas with tea or old-fashioned hot chocolate. Books are displayed on the tables, to be borrowed or read on site; habitués leave comments on their readings to help future customers choose. Of course, you can always bring your own books. Finally, the Caffè’s chef delights his customer’s taste buds with recreations of the favourite cuisine of literature’s gastronomes, such as Maigret, Arsène Lupin, and Colombo.

Via Ostiense 83, 95, 00154

Lettere Caffè

At the heart of Trastevere, Lettere Caffè evokes the literary cafés of Mitteleuropa. Designed by architects Wortman and Scatafassi, the style combines the Novecento with the new millennium. The owner, herself a charming author, organizes book launches, concerts, and painting and photography exhibits. Dishes include excellent polentas, crostini, and a wide selection of cakes. A favourite of Roman artists.

Via del Moro, 40, 00153

The Lion Bookshop & Café

Tucked into little Via dei Greci a ten-minute walk from the Piazza del Popolo, the Lion Bookshop is Rome’s oldest bookstore. Specializing in North American authors, it also offers works on photography, art, architecture, and cuisine. A favourite with literature students, it is also popular with families for its collection of children’s books.

Via dei Greci 33/36, 00187