First dog restaurant in Rome attracts attention
Step into “Futo,” the unique restaurant in Rome that offers a distinct atmosphere for both humans and their furry companions. With dim lighting, calming music, and attentive staff, this dog restaurant stands out by going above and beyond to cater to dogs as well as their owners.
The menu for four-legged guests features a variety of options, including fish with ricotta and zucchini, minced and mashed chicken, and a hearty bowl of vegetables. As for drinks, dogs can enjoy refreshing green apples and watermelon juice.
Luca Grammatico, a dog trainer turned head chef at Futo, explains that the menu was carefully curated in collaboration with an animal nutritionist. Together, they considered allergies commonly experienced by dogs and developed dishes that are safe and nutritious. Grammatico mentions, “Dogs often suffer from allergies more frequently than humans, so it was crucial to create a menu with their well-being in mind.”
Inside the dog restaurant, you’ll notice a tranquil ambience. Dogs happily chow down on their meals, nestled comfortably in designated boxes. Residents like Pepe, a black-and-white Bichon mix, lick their bowls clean, clearly enjoying every bite.
Sarah Nicosanti, a real estate worker, believes that pets are a part of the family and deserve to be treated as such. She happily snaps a selfie with her five-year-old Jack Russell terrier, Mango, in front of the restaurant’s mirror-covered walls. Nicosanti expresses her satisfaction with the variety of food options available, noting that dogs can maintain a balanced diet.
The talented chef ensures that the dishes are prepared without spices, salt, and oils, but still manages to make them delicious. Grammatico adds a touch of indulgence with white cream sauces and even shapes some dishes like bones, making them visually appealing as well. Interestingly, Grammatico notes that fish is a favorite among dogs due to its unique flavor, different from their regular meals.
Recently, Romina Lanza, a 40-year-old lawyer, celebrated her dog Rudy’s fourth birthday at Futo. She views the restaurant as a welcome initiative, even though she understands the debate around the importance of feeding pets gourmet meals. Lanza defends the dog restaurant, stating, “It’s a personal choice, and I don’t see any harm in it.”
Maria Gliotona, a twenty-year-old student, came across Futo on TikTok and decided to bring her dogs. When asked about the dog restaurant and if it’s worth taking hr dogs to such a place, she remarked “Only people who don’t have dogs think like that,”