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Freni e Frizioni

Rome

High quality, high volume serves in low-fi surrounds

Located in a former car mechanic shop on the edge of the bustling Trastevere neighbourhood, Freni e Frizioni – meaning brakes and clutches – is the gold standard for Roman high-volume hospitality. While many of the world's elite bars lean into exclusivity, Freni thrives on the energy of the masses. Its building retains its former life's industrial bones: high ceilings, rugged walls and vintage automotive paraphernalia, but the backbar is stocked with a collection of spirits that would rival any velvet-clad lounge. This results in an atmosphere that is electric, fuelled by nightly DJs and a democratic spirit that welcomes everyone from backpackers to connoisseurs.

Under the guidance of Riccardo Rossi, the bar has evolved from a casual aperitivo spot into a technical powerhouse. The cocktail list is frequently themed, drawing inspiration from pop culture or historical eras. Its latest iteration draws from the stereotypes of bar-goers, adapting their personalities into drinks like The Regular (Dorito-infused tequila, Cointreau, pico de gallo, grapefruit soda) and the Nerd (rum, cachaça, blueberry, caramel, soy and condensed milk wash).

While Freni e Frizioni has become a destination for craft cocktail enthusiasts, it has remained a local stalwart, with crowds of Romans drinking classic spritzes and ice-cold beers on the sun-drenched piazza outside every given evening.

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