Near the Piazza del Popolo, Castel Sant’Angelo and the Campo de’ Fiori, hotel J.K. Place Roma is an ideal base for discovering Rome’s star attractions – and a contemporary-cool retreat for a little R&R (and a decent negroni) between the sights.
09 December, 2020
If there's such a thing as the perfect launchpad to the eternal city, J.K. Place Roma might just be it. Despite being a stone's throw from the Piazza del Popolo, Castel Sant'Angelo and the Campo de' Fiori, it's location in a small piazza just off Via del Corso gives you plenty of quiet for rest, relaxation and reflection.
Inside, understated contemporary design is punctuated by replica ancient statues and antique furniture: a conscious nod to the past of the building, which used to be Rome's school of architecture.
Former classrooms have been converted into 30 spacious bedrooms. Standard rooms come in three palettes: gold and pearl; soft greys; deep greens with vibrant burgundy - a scheme that echoes across the hotel. Expect lots of Italian marble, gorgeous revamped fireplaces and extremely comfortable king-size beds. For the ultimate dolce vita feeling, opt for one of the seven suites, each with a separate bedroom and lounge area.
Aside from a selection of fresh pastries, you can choose from an extensive menu of savoury and sweet dishes, including healthy choices, such as egg-white omelette or a plate of fresh fruit. Not ready to get out of your bathrobe and down to the elegant dining room? Order in at no extra cost and enjoy the same selection while nurturing your negroni-infused hangover. When in Rome…
The all-day restaurant, J.K. Café, serves traditional Roman dishes as well as stars of international cuisine. Go for established classics such as the club sandwich and Caesar salad or get a taste of Rome by way of authentic suppli (filled rice croquettes) and cacio e pepe. Food worthy of the Roman gods.
Oh boy, what a bar! After drinking our way through numerous Roman establishments (all in the name of research), we came to the conclusion that the best aperitivo was closest to home. Enjoy masterfully crafted cocktails in the beautiful dining room, accompanied by a daily changing selection of snacks and small treats, including olives, sea-bass ceviche and the aforementioned suppli.
The room rates are not only inclusive of breakfast but also of the daily replenished minibar stocked with water, soft drinks and a number of sweet and savoury snacks. Additionally, around-the-clock room service will deliver some light dishes (as well as lasagne) to feed your midnight cravings.
Be mindful of the Covid safety measures: during our visit, masks were to be worn in all communal areas of the hotel, aside from when you sit down at your table.
Pretty much everything. Head to Via del Babuino for designer shopping; climb the stairs to Pincian Hill for a run around the Villa Borghese; embrace Rome's bounty of culture - J.K. puts you within easy reach of the city's main attractions. Fun fact: the nearby, recently restored Mausoleum of Augustus was once so overgrown that it looked like hill rather than a building, giving it the nickname "Mons Augustus".