I'm looking for a first rate dinner at a restaurant near the Piazza. I'm happy to spend a lot for a good place but prefer not to throw it away "hassler" style.

Good morning:
We have used the ristorante NINO, Via
Borgognona, 11.. It is located about a
half block south from the Spanish Steps
street to the right and down about 1/4
block. It is a exxcellant Roman style
ristorante with perfect Roman artichokes. We have used it regularly
each time we return to Rome and will be
using it again in November..
Richard of LaGrange Park, Il..
Another in the Parioli district is the
Ambasciata d'Abruzzo, via Petro Tacchini, 26...a dining experience.
Abruzzi cooking. Both require
reservatiions!!! Richard of LaGrange
Park, IL>.

There are several terrific restaurants in easy walking distance from Piazza di Spagna. Nino is certainly one of them. You may wish to consider any of the following as well:

Buca di Ripetta
Le Colline Emiliane
Difronte a...
Osteria Margutta
Da Settimio all'Arancio

I think Nino is pretty mediocre. Buca di Ripetta is one of my favorites. Or, go where the Romans go: Fiaschetteria Beltrame, Via Della Croce 39. Tiny place, no reservations so you'll probably stand in line. Cash only, perfect food.

Grinisa, dear...Nino mediocre? I'm not surprised. Have you been recently? Do you remember what you ordered? My last meal there was at least 2 years ago and I did have a lovely meal with Roman fashion friends. It was a bit too NY (scene) for my taste to continue going on any regular basis. The same reason I stopped going to Dal Bolognese. I just assume walk to Buca.

NYFoodSnob: The last time I was at Nino was about four years ago and both my husband and I were very unimpressed with both the food and the service. Maybe it has improved since then but based on my experience there, I wouldn't recommend it. Not when Buca di Ripetta is so close by. I agree with you assessment of da Bolognese. Over priced food that is nothing special. That restaurant is the definition of "resting on one's laurels" and seems to be populated by young tourists who want to see and be seen before joining the crowd at the Piazza del Popolo.