Carlo Cracco on Viride: Bringing the soul of Rome to the table

Set within a historic Palazzo in the heart of Rome, Viride is more than a restaurant, it is Chef Carlo Cracco's personal interpretation of the Eternal City. Inspired by Rome's beauty, history and culinary heritage, Viride celebrates Italian excellence through contemporary craftsmanship, refined hospitality and profound respect for tradition.

In this exclusive Q&A, Chef Carlo Cracco reflects on the inspiration behind Viride, his approach to Roman cuisine and the philosophy that informs every detail of the dining experience.

Rome has inspired artists, architects and chefs for centuries. What does the city represent to you?

Carlo Cracco: "Anyone who has tried to seduce Rome has ultimately been seduced by the city."

Rome has an extraordinary ability to captivate everyone who spends time here. Its history, architecture, culture and everyday rhythm naturally shape the way people think and create. Rather than imposing something new upon the city, Viride embraces its character, allowing Rome itself to become the restaurant's greatest source of inspiration.

How has Rome influenced your culinary vision at Viride?

Carlo Cracco: "In Rome, inspiration comes naturally. You simply have to surrender to the beauty around you."

This philosophy is reflected throughout Viride. From the menu to the interiors, every element has been conceived as a dialogue between the heritage of the Palazzo and a contemporary culinary vision. The ambition is not to recreate the past, but to reinterpret it with elegance, authenticity and a deep sense of place.

Roman cuisine is loved around the world. Why do you think it has such universal appeal?

Carlo Cracco: "From children to adults, everyone loves carbonara."

Roman cuisine achieves a rare balance between simplicity and depth. Its iconic dishes are rooted in tradition yet continue to resonate across generations and cultures. At Viride, these timeless flavours are celebrated through refined technique, precision and a contemporary perspective.

How would you describe your culinary philosophy at Viride?

Carlo Cracco: "Our only ambition is to be personal, unique in our own way, while remaining measured."

Viride is guided by a philosophy of restraint, authenticity and respect. Innovation is never pursued for its own sake; every dish is created to express a distinctive identity while remaining faithful to its origins. The result is a dining experience that feels both contemporary and unmistakably Italian.

The design of Viride is closely connected to the Palazzo. How did the building influence the restaurant?

Carlo Cracco: "The Salone del Consiglio is an extraordinary space, and it inspired every decorative detail of the restaurant, from the colour palette to the tableware. The deep green, the red and every subtle tonal variation all originate there. Our Ginori 1735 porcelain was created exclusively for Viride, drawing inspiration from the hall's decorative motifs, mosaic floor, plasterwork and original colour palette. Even the champagne-finished cutlery was designed exclusively for us. It was my way of bringing the soul of the building to the table."

How do you reinterpret Roman cuisine without losing its authenticity?

Carlo Cracco: "We wanted to bring out the best of Roman cuisine with a contemporary touch, without ever turning it into something else. That's how our hosomaki of coda alla vaccinara was born: Japanese technique, Roman 'quinto quarto', all in one bite. It's a tiny roll, packed with flavour, but absolutely delicious. You get the whole idea of coda alla vaccinara in a single mouthful."

Your menu also reflects your own culinary journey. How does that influence the experience at Viride?

Carlo Cracco: "Risotto is one dish I'll never leave behind. It's a tribute to my roots. We all carry the dishes of our own culinary traditions with us. At Viride, it is finished with saffron, bone marrow, dark chocolate and fresh spring onion. Alongside it is a veal cutlet with a cacio e pepe crust, creating a bridge between Milan and Rome, two gastronomic cultures united by mutual respect."

Frequently Asked Questions: Viride by Carlo Cracco

Who is Chef Carlo Cracco?

Chef Carlo Cracco is one of Italy's most celebrated chefs, renowned for his contemporary approach to Italian cuisine. At Viride, he brings his distinctive culinary vision to Corinthia Rome, creating a menu inspired by the flavours, traditions and culture of the Eternal City.

What is Viride by Carlo Cracco?

Viride is the signature restaurant at Corinthia Rome, led by Chef Carlo Cracco. Set within a beautifully restored historic Palazzo, it celebrates Roman cuisine through contemporary Italian craftsmanship, seasonal ingredients and refined hospitality.

Where is Viride by Carlo Cracco located?

Viride is located within Corinthia Rome, in the heart of Rome's historic Campo Marzio district, close to the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.

What type of cuisine does Viride serve?

Viride serves contemporary Italian cuisine inspired by Rome's rich culinary heritage. The menu reinterprets classic Roman dishes with refined techniques, seasonal ingredients and Chef Carlo Cracco's distinctive creative approach.

What makes Viride by Carlo Cracco unique?

Viride combines the culinary vision of Chef Carlo Cracco with the heritage of Corinthia Rome's historic Palazzo. From bespoke Ginori 1735 porcelain to dishes inspired by Roman tradition, every detail reflects a deep connection to the city and its culture.

Can I dine at Viride without staying at Corinthia Rome?

Yes. Viride welcomes both hotel guests and visitors looking to experience one of Rome's most distinctive fine dining restaurants.

What other restaurants and bars are available at Corinthia Rome?

Alongside Viride by Carlo Cracco, guests can discover Piazzetta, an elegant all-day dining destination celebrating seasonal Italian flavours from breakfast through to dinner, and Ocra Bar, a sophisticated setting for expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines and light bites inspired by the spirit of Rome.

ALL RESTAURANTS & BARS