Bar Caffè Balduina: A Historic Shop in Rome’s Balduina Neighborhood

The Bar Caffè Balduina, located at Via Andrea Baldi 35 in Rome’s XIV Municipality, has recently been awarded the prestigious designation of “Historic Shop” by Rome’s municipal commission. This recognition honors its 70 years of activity. The café first opened its doors in the 1950s, during the construction of the Balduina neighborhood. Positioned along Via Ugo de Carolis, it was managed from the 1980s by Gaetano, an opera enthusiast, and his wife Grazia. About a year ago, ownership passed to entrepreneur Matteo Sica, a native of the Appio district and the current proprietor. Behind the counter, expert baristas Sara and Danilo serve the customers with a smile.

For Giubileo Magazine, we interviewed the new owner, Matteo Sica, who shared insights into the bar’s rich history:
“The business began before the 1960s as a milk bar. Time has passed, but the café is still alive and thriving, with customers who love to share their daily stories.”

Sica highlighted the close-knit nature of the area:
“Here, people know each other. In this corner of Balduina, there’s still a social and economic fabric that is disappearing elsewhere in Rome. For over sixty years, businesses like the wine and oil shop, the bakery, and others—such as the tobacconist, barber, hairdressers, greengrocer, butcher, and antique dealer—have been a constant presence.”

A Neighborhood Café Like No Other

Sica also described the unique camaraderie that defines the café’s atmosphere:
“There’s a sort of friendly competition among customers to treat each other to coffee. This spontaneous generosity is something you wouldn’t find in a bar in the city center, where the rush of tourists leaves no time even to wash the cups. Here, we’re never in a hurry. This place feels like a large village, with a deep attachment to the neighborhood. The customers are practically always the same; about 80 percent are regulars, while the remaining 20 percent are split between workers and the occasional passerby.”

He continued:
“Gaetano and Grazia ran the bar for many years, leaving their mark on Balduina. Now, we’ve decided to continue in their footsteps, preserving the bar’s original identity. It remains a classic café where everyone shares their stories. Here, nothing escapes anyone’s notice. What’s beautiful is the sense of belonging—a community spirit. This area has always attracted former RAI employees, retired military personnel, and even some familiar faces. For instance, Lillo often stops by for a coffee. We’re the only bar located on one of Balduina’s main streets, and you can feel it. The locals are accustomed to visiting the various small shops in the area, perhaps because, for now, there’s no room for a shopping mall here.”

Preserving Memories Over Coffee

Sica concluded with a reflection on the café’s essence:
“It’s about preserving memories, over a coffee and a casual ‘tomorrow is another day.’”

This historic café not only offers great coffee but also serves as a living reminder of Rome’s enduring charm, where traditions and stories blend seamlessly into daily life.