Re: I have booked dinner for two of the three evenings. NIGHT 1: Castetta de Trastervere NIGHT2: L'ORSO 80. Any comments about these ...

L'Orso 80 was fantastic; we liked it so much we went back twice on a recent trip. Suggestion: Order the antipasto (see: http://www.rozault.com/italy2004/source/orso80.html ) and nothing else unless you have a gargantuan appetite. It's fine to order one course at a time anyway at any place and decide after the first one what else if anything you want.

..a must is to realize that Rome has SO much to see and you have little time. I think the first time I went to Rome I wanted to see everything. Results- a very tired and somewhat disappointed tourist. I have been back several times since- last a Thurspm-Monday pm longweekend with opera tickets (high bidder at a silent auction). Each time I have had more fun though the last was the shortest. I have had more fun because I think of the things I have seen and done rather than the things I have missed. plan but dont overstructure..do your homework before had so that you can scrap or modify your plans based on weather, fatigue or whatever! Have a great time!!

Grandma, I was interested in your mentioning the Cafe Grecco on the Via Condotti. Noone seems to every mention this fantastic cafe. Believe it is the oldest in Rome.

For you travelers, it is just down the Via Condotti from the Spanish Stairs. On your right, you cannot miss it.

Very definetly worthwhile. Beautiful and elegant. Have a drink (espresso, wine, campari etc.) and perhaps a snack. Good restrooms too. Enjoy!