in Rome – Italy

Pulejo Ristorante, situated in the heart of Rome’s Prati district, is a restaurant that embodies tradition, memory, and a deep connection to family heritage. Opened on March 31, 2022, it was founded with the vision of creating a space that feels welcoming and familiar. The name itself, Pulejo, is a tribute to the chef’s family, reinforcing the idea of sharing a dining experience rooted in personal history.

At the helm of the restaurant is Davide Puleio, a chef whose career has taken him through some of Europe’s most renowned kitchens. Born and raised in Rome, he honed his skills at Il Convivio Troiani before gaining valuable experience at establishments such as Noma in Copenhagen and Texture in London. His tenure at L’Alchimia in Milan was particularly significant, earning him his first Michelin star. In 2022, he returned to Rome to open Pulejo, where tradition and modern influences intertwine seamlessly.

Our dinner at Pulejo began on a promising note and seemed to grow in anticipation with every dish. The highlight arrived quickly—the Chestnut Tagliatelle with sea urchins. It was a dish that stood out not just within the evening’s offerings but as one of the best of the entire year. Its rich flavors and delicate balance left a lasting impression, setting a standard that was difficult for the rest of the meal to match.

While the experience remained enjoyable, the early peak of the menu left us yearning for something equally remarkable in the later courses. The excitement we felt leading up to the tagliatelle dish was undeniable, yet nothing that followed quite recaptured that same level of admiration. It’s always a challenge when a meal reaches its high point too soon, leaving the remaining dishes to compete with an already unforgettable moment.

Despite this, the memory of that exceptional tagliatelle lingers, making Pulejo a place worth revisiting. If nothing else, returning for another taste of that remarkable dish would be more than enough reason to step back into the inviting space where the chef’s journey and culinary vision come to life.

Chef: Davide Puleio
Date of visit: November 5th 2024
Website: http://pulejo.it
Michelin: 1 star