Pope Francis’ Unusual Portuguese Restaurant Order: Neither Cod Nor Wine

Pope Francis’ Unusual Portuguese Restaurant Order: Neither Cod Nor Wine

Pope Francis‘s Favorite Meal Before Papacy Revealed

amid recent health concerns, a heartwarming anecdote has emerged about Pope Francis’s simple culinary preferences before he ascended to the papacy. The owner of TRE PUPÃO, a restaurant near St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, revealed that then-Cardinal Jorge mario Bergoglio was a frequent patron.

A humble Meal: Carbonara and Water

Fatima Afonso, the restaurant’s owner, shared that the future Pope Francis consistently ordered the same dish: carbonara and a bottle of water. “Pope Francis asked for a carbonara and a bottle of water,” Afonso stated. As his visits became more frequent, he occasionally varied his order with “a All’matiticiana, well garnished with guancing and pecorino cheese.” These dishes reflect the customary Roman cuisine that Francis enjoyed.

Longing for a Taste of the Past

As becoming Pope, Francis has not returned to TRE PUPÃO. However, Afonso believes he misses the restaurant. The story unfolds with a visit from a priest who, after meeting with Pope Francis, told Afonso, “I asked him if he needed help and he wanted to have lunch and he just told me he had had a meeting with the Holy Father and that he confided that he missed coming to a carbonara.”

TRE PUPÃO: A Blend of Italian and Portuguese Flavors

While Pope Francis has not revisited, TRE PUPÃO has evolved. Originally focused solely on Italian cuisine, the restaurant now features a blend of Italian and Portuguese dishes. Fatima and her husband now offer cod prepared in 14 different ways, alongside classic Portuguese dishes like seafood rice and octopus. This culinary diversification is increasingly popular among restaurant owners to cater to broader clientele (National Restaurant Association).

Cardinal Tolentino de Mendonça: A Regular Patron

Adding to the restaurant’s appeal, Cardinal Tolentino de Mendonça is a regular customer. He frequents TRE PUPÃO,and “when he doesn’t come here to eat cod with cream or codfish pastries,he asks to take her green broth and other dishes to home.”

Celebrity Clientele

TRE PUPÃO is also a popular spot for Portuguese public figures. Journalist Fátima Campos Ferreira, soccer coach José Mourinho, actress Claudia Vieira, and singer Toy have all dined at the restaurant, further solidifying its reputation as more than just a local eatery.

From Humble Beginnings to a Vatican Favorite

  • Simple Tastes: Pope Francis favored carbonara and water.
  • Culinary Evolution: TRE PUPÃO now offers both Italian and Portuguese cuisine.
  • Notable Patrons: The restaurant attracts cardinals and celebrities alike.

The story of Pope Francis’s fondness for a simple carbonara provides a glimpse into his life before the papacy.It also highlights how a small restaurant near the Vatican has become a cherished spot for locals and celebrities. Consider visiting TRE PUPÃO on your next trip to Rome and experience the flavors that once delighted Pope francis himself. What are your favorite pasta dishes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How do the restaurant’s expanded portuguese menu offerings adn celebrity patrons, particularly Portuguese figures, contribute to its overall marketing strategy and appeal to a diverse clientele given its location near the Vatican?

archyde Exclusive: The Story Behind Pope Francis’s Favorite Carbonara at TRE PUPÃO

Amid recent reflections on Pope Francis’s health, a charming revelation surfaced: before becoming Pope, he had a favorite, decidedly simple, meal. We spoke with Isabella Rossi, a Vatican City food critic and author of “Dining with Dignitaries,” to delve into the story behind Pope Francis’s preferred dish at TRE PUPÃO and the restaurant’s captivating evolution.

From Cardinal to Pontiff: A Carbonara Connection

archyde: Isabella, thanks for joining us. The revelation about Pope Francis’s fondness for TRE PUPÃO and its carbonara has resonated. What’s so significant about this seemingly simple meal?

Isabella Rossi: It speaks volumes, really. Before the weight of the papacy settled on his shoulders, Cardinal Bergoglio sought solace in the simple pleasures of life. A straightforward carbonara, made with quality ingredients, reflects humility and a connection to the local community. It’s a reminder that even the most influential figures appreciate unpretentious comfort food.

TRE PUPÃO: More Than Just Italian Cuisine

Archyde: The article highlights TRE PUPÃO’s transition from purely Italian to incorporating Portuguese flavors. How does this culinary diversification impact its appeal, particularly given its location near the Vatican?

Isabella Rossi: It’s incredibly savvy.Vatican City attracts a diverse clientele, from tourists and pilgrims to Vatican staff and clergy from various backgrounds. By offering Portuguese dishes – cod prepared in numerous ways, seafood rice – TRE PUPÃO broadened its appeal and created a more inclusive dining experience.It allowed them attract new customers while maintaining its Italian roots.

Cardinal Tolentino and Celebrity Patrons: Expanding the Restaurant’s Popularity

Archyde: Beyond Pope Francis’s connection,TRE PUPÃO boasts some other notable patrons,including Cardinal Tolentino de Mendonça and several Portuguese celebrities. How considerable is this patronage for the restaurant’s reputation?

Isabella Rossi: It’s crucial.Cardinal Tolentino’s regular presence adds a layer of prestige and reinforces TRE PUPÃO’s credibility within the Vatican community. The celebrity endorsements, particularly from prominent Portuguese figures like José Mourinho, extend its reach beyond the immediate vicinity. It elevates TRE PUPÃO from a local eatery to a destination restaurant, further boosted by digital marketing.

The Enduring Appeal of Simplicity: Pope Francis’s Dining Legacy

Archyde: Fatima Afonso believes Pope Francis misses TRE PUPÃO. What do you think draws people back to a particular restaurant, especially when thier lives change dramatically as was the case with Pope Francis?

Isabella Rossi: Nostalgia, without a doubt. A restaurant can be more than just a place to eat; it can be a repository of memories. For Pope Francis, TRE PUPÃO likely represents a simpler time, a connection to his roots – a slice of normalcy amidst the extraordinary responsibilities he now carries. The aroma of the carbonara, the familiar faces, these details can evoke powerful emotions. That is why food and travel blogging is so fascinating and popular.

Archyde: Isabella, this story raises a compelling question: what’s your go-to comfort food that brings you back to fond memories? Share your food stories in the comments below!

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