Decor tips

Rome at home: You don’t have to travel to Italy to experience Rome. These five tips will bring European flair and flavor to your next dinner party

BY ANNIE LUST

AMBIANCE — Dining al fresco, meaning outdoors, is very common in Rome. Replicate that by setting a table outside. Bring out your nice plates and silverware. Some candles or string lights add to the ambiance.

DRINK — Don’t overlook drink choices. In Italy, there is an apéritif, a drink served before the meal to stimulate the appetite. With the meal, sparkling water and wine are typical. Don’t forget your espresso with, and a digestivo after, dessert!

MOVIE — Roman Holiday is a fun way to glimpse Rome as Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck zip through the streets on a vespa. A modern rom-com Letters for Juliet is another option. Also check out the two-part miniseries Pope John Paul II starring Jon Voight. Which is available on Formed.

COMPANY — A party isn't a party without good company, especially in Italy. Turn off your phone and spend the evening in conversation with friends or family. Buon appetito!

MEAL — Make your meal a production. In Italy, menus are separated into antipasti (appetizers), primo (carbohydrate main course), secondo (protein main course), cortorni (side dishes), dolci (desserts). Plan to enjoy the meal over the course of a few hours.