In the heart of Rione Monti, nestled within an 18th-century palazzo, Casa Monti has opened its doors—a five-star boutique hotel where French elegance meets Roman authenticity. This latest project by the Leitmotiv group, under the creative direction of interior designer Laura Gonzalez, unfolds across six levels, boasting 26 impeccably designed rooms and 10 suites, a gourmet restaurant, and—saving the best for last—a rooftop bar that stuns with breathtaking views of Rome’s rooftops and a cocktail menu that tells the story of the neighborhood.
Casa Monti: A Blend of Styles
Inside Casa Monti, antique treasures, contemporary art, and exquisite local craftsmanship come together to create a space that feels like an artist’s residence. Every detail has been meticulously curated, from the guest rooms to the common areas, but the real magic happens on the top floor. Here, the contemporary design of the rooftop bar contrasts beautifully with the palazzo’s historic architecture. The focal point? A black-and-white checkerboard bar, where guests can sip their drinks at the counter in winter or out on the terrace when the weather allows.
The Roman Aperitivo Hour
As the sun sets, Casa Monti transforms, revealing its true essence. Gonzalez’s design plays with materials and textures: dark wood counters, sumptuous upholstered sofas, and warm, ambient lighting that makes the space feel intimate yet lively. A carefully curated playlist sets the mood, allowing for relaxed conversation as guests take in the panoramic view of the Eternal City.
Casa Monti, A Taste of the Neighborhood
Rione Monti has stories to tell, and at Casa Monti, the cocktail menu does the talking. Bar manager Mark Supillo and his team have crafted a drink list inspired by the district’s trades and characters, featuring nine original creations. La Fioraia, a delicate blend of mountain flower-infused gin and raspberry shrub, pays tribute to the local florists. Il Barista 2.0 reinvents coffee culture with apple- and cinnamon-infused vodka, chicory coffee, and cacao bitters. Il Girovago, a nod to Monti’s wandering spirits, pairs mezcal with yellow bell pepper for an unexpected kick. La Nonna, inspired by comforting flavors, combines gin, apricot jam, and almond milk into a nostalgic yet refreshing sipper.
Craft Spirit
If you’re up for more, the menu has plenty to explore. Il Barbiere, a refined yet daring choice, combines bourbon infused with rooibos tea and beet mousse for a cocktail that’s both bold and elegant. Meanwhile, Il Musicista di Strada 2.0 reinvents the Spritz with a blend of chai-infused bitter, Prosecco, Curaçao, and blackcurrant liqueur mousse.
Zero-Proof, Full Flavor in Casa Monti
For those skipping alcohol, Casa Monti’s no-ABV selection delivers just as much personality. Il Corridore Mattutino is a crisp and refreshing mix of a non-alcoholic aperitif, passion fruit, and soda. Il Restauratore d’Arte combines non-alcoholic spirit, fermented carrot, and bergamot for a drink that is just as complex as its boozy counterparts.
Of course, classic cocktails are always available on request, ensuring that Casa Monti’s hospitality is as thoughtful as its setting. This isn’t just a bar—it’s a tribute to the bohemian soul of Monti, a place where every sip tells a story and every evening feels like a chapter worth remembering.
Photo by Jérôme Galland, courtesy Casa Monti Roma
