Il Serpente Pub

I only spent a week in Rome, but I tried to hit as many beer places as I could. 3 months later the Serpente Pub remains a fond memory despite the fact that I'm not fond of the neighborhood. It's not far from one of my favorite restaurants though, I Porchettoni (Via del Pigneto, 68, 00176), so that always made the trek worth it.

And honestly, I can't really put my finger on why that is. The owners are certainly part of it because they're just genuine and friendly and really into their beer, but I never really had too much contact with them. I think they really wanted to connect with me, but I was with my wife and she demands my complete attention whenever we're doing "beer things" - otherwise I won't get to do "beer things"!

So is it the space? At least partially. I don't normally go in for English or Irish style pubs when I'm not in England or Ireland, but they've got a "pub" vibe that I really liked. It just felt comfortable: low-light, tile floors, orange walls, long tall tables in the side (back) room, wood-framed glass cabinets with displays and different Scotches and liquors, football scarves, and a Sgt. Pepper album cover featuring the Serpente family. And unlike many places in Rome, the bar is actually used as a focal gathering point, rather than just a place to go and fetch your beer or stand at. There's conversation and friendship going on - and I liked that, and that goes back to the owners, and the crowd, so I guess that's really it. But, the beer selection didn't hurt!!!

They have 8 inverted "cobra" faucets that hang from the ceiling over the bar, with 1 cider and a cask. It's not a new thing, but neither is it common in Rome, and it's got an interesting look, and it seems to draw attention. There are also 3 coolers of bottles in the back with maybe 50 beers, and another at the bar with around 30. It's what's on tap that's interesting though as they try to bring in the newest and most unusual/rare stuff.

Great little pub in San Lorenzo with a friendly staff and fun clientele. 9 craft taps with a nice mix of Italian, German (Hacker Pschorr Kellerbier!!), Belgian and others. Bottle selection is relatively small but is always changing and is all quality. Atmosphere is very comfortable with football and beer swag all over the place. I felt very much at home here. This was my local for my week in Rome and I hope to go back and vist with Vania and Simore again soon. When in Rome, you must visit this great little pub!