Box 71 at Mercato Irnerio: Home-Style Roman and Mediterranean Cuisine

Mercato Irnerio may not be Rome’s most famous food market, but it radiates a unique charm and offers a treasure trove of delightful culinary experiences. Situated in the northwest of the city near the Cornelia metro stop and along via Aurelia, this traditional Roman market seamlessly combines stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, and household goods with a selection of inviting eateries. Though smaller and less frequented than some of Rome’s iconic markets, Mercato Irnerio stands out for its variety and authenticity, providing an intimate glimpse into local Roman life.

Among its standout venues is Box 71, a beloved restaurant owned and operated by Simonetta Onori. Opened seven years ago, it has become a local favorite, renowned for its expertly prepared Mediterranean and Roman dishes and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Operated by an all-female team, Box 71 captures the comforting essence of dining at home, reminiscent of those familiar, heartfelt meals lovingly prepared by your mom or nonna. With a handful of thoughtfully arranged tables indoors and outdoors especially on warmer days, the vibrant energy of the market as its backdrop, Box 71 provides an intimate, inviting setting where diners are made to feel genuinely cared for, leaving not just satisfied but eager to return.

Meet Simonetta Onori: The Heart Behind Box 71

Simonetta Onori’s journey to founding Box 71 is as inspiring as the dishes she serves. After leaving a career in IT, Simonetta decided to pursue her lifelong passion for cooking, a calling she had always treasured. She honed her culinary skills at the renowned A Tavola con lo Chef culinary school in Rome, a life-changing decision that transformed her dreams into reality and brought her vision to life in the heart of Mercato Irnerio.

 

Simonetta Onori and her staff

Simonetta’s cooking philosophy is grounded in love, experience, and an unwavering commitment to quality. She meticulously selects fresh, high-grade ingredients, crafting each dish with care and precision. While her menu leans more toward meat-based dishes than seafood, every plate reflects her passion and dedication to excellence. Amore, Esperienza, Passione, Creatività e Materie Prime di Qualità (Love, Experience, Passion, Creativity, and Quality Ingredients) These are the cornerstones of Simonetta’s culinary creations. Box 71 is more than just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of tradition and innovation. From the beloved Cacio e Pepe to imaginative, modern dishes, Simonetta ensures that every bite is a tribute to her love of cooking and her desire to share it with others.

The Menu

Box 71’s menu highlights Simonetta’s creativity and expertise in traditional Roman cuisine. The cornerstone dishes of the Roman culinary tradition: Amatriciana, Carbonara, and Cacio e Pepe, are always on offer, prepared with authenticity. Diners can also savor hearty, rotating pasta options (€9–12) and daily main courses, including meatballs in tomato sauce, lamb chops with seasonal salad, or veal stew with potatoes (€8–14). For lighter bites, a selection of tramezzini (triangular sandwiches), panini (Italian sandwiches), and burgers are available, priced from €3 to €9. 

Both photos above from Box 71's Facebook page

When it comes to wines, Simonetta keeps her selection thoughtfully curated, focusing on two respected wineries from the Lazio region: Carpineti and Donato Giangirolami. Renowned for their commitment to excellence, both wineries specialize in organic production and showcase the unique flavors of Lazio's indigenous grape varieties. By highlighting these local gems, Simonetta not only supports sustainable winemaking but also ensures her guests enjoy a true taste of the region's rich viticultural heritage.

Box 71

Address: Mercato Irnerio, Via Aurelia 483 - 00165 Roma (RM), Italy
Tel: +39 366 7433881
Website: https://www.box71mercatoirnerio.it/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Box71laboratoriodicucinaconcantina/
Opening Hours: Mondays to Saturdays - 10:00 to 15:00, except Fridays until 22:00 / Closed on Sundays