# Exploring a Roman market

**Language:** Italian  
**CEFR Level:** B1  

> Listen in as Alessia and Marco talk about navigating the best local markets in Rome in real, everyday Italian. By the end of this course their conversation will feel easy to follow, and you'll be ready to join in.

**Setting:** The course is set amidst the bustling stalls of Rome's historic and modern markets, from the local Mercato di Testaccio to the organic farmers at Circo Massimo. Alessia is in Rome during her ferry's maintenance week to research local ingredients, where she crosses paths with Marco, who is studying Roman market logistics for his agritech startup, leading them to explore the city's food scene together.

## Lessons

### 1. Comparing the cost of goods

Alessia and Marco debate the rising food prices in Testaccio, comparing them to what Alessia pays for fruit on her ship.

### 2. Suggesting where to go

Alessia asks about trying traditional Roman artichokes, prompting Marco to suggest a trip to the Ghetto market.

### 3. Asking for clarification

Marco advises Alessia to avoid touristy markets in favor of locally sourced goods, explaining what "zero-kilometer" means.

### 4. Describing your professional work

Marco explains how his app development work helps local farmers bypass intermediaries and sell their products directly in Rome.

### 5. Recommending local food specialties

Alessia shares what she usually cooks while at sea, prompting Marco to recommend that she try a classic Roman street food.

### 6. Explaining the origin of names

Alessia asks about the curious name of "supplì al telefono," and Marco explains how the melted cheese inside gives the dish its name.

### 7. Expressing enjoyment of food

Alessia enjoys her warm street food, and she and Marco plan their next culinary stops while deciding to walk to the Ghetto market.

### 8. Discussing lifestyle changes

Marco explains why he swapped his busy city life in Milan for farming in Puglia, while Alessia reflects on the unique nature of her life at sea.

### 9. Planning a menu

Alessia explains her goal of adding Roman dishes to her ship's menu, and Marco suggests trying a famous local fried artichoke in the Ghetto.

### 10. Describing food textures and flavors

Alessia and Marco taste the fried artichoke, describing its texture and flavor, before Alessia decides she wants to visit the Mercato Trionfale next.

### 11. Discussing transportation options

Marco warns Alessia about the difficult parking situation near the market, leading them to discuss taking the metro instead.

### 12. Discussing schedules and free time

Marco estimates the travel time to the market and suggests waiting until tomorrow, but Alessia explains her schedule and insists on going today.

### 13. Discussing shopping preferences

Alessia shares her interest in visiting the Porta Portese market for vintage items, while Marco clarifies what the market is actually known for.

### 14. Making plans with someone

Marco offers to accompany Alessia to the vintage market, and they agree to finish their delicious artichokes before planning the rest of their day.