Italian luxury fashion brand Aquazzura is stepping off the runway and into the world of long drinks: at Hotel de Russie in Rome, it has opened its first-ever Aquazzura Bar – a fusion of fashion, design, and culinary flair.
It’s a decidedly stylish debut that Italian luxury fashion brand Aquazzura is making with its new Aquazzura Bar. The brand’s iconic aesthetic pairs perfectly with the timeless grandeur of the Rocco Forte Hotel in Rome. The hotel, housed in an early 19th-century building, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Aquazzura, founded in 2012, is only half as old – but already holds legendary status of its own. So, what can guests at Hotel de Russie now look forward to?
Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Via del Babuino, 9, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 328881 - roccofortehotels.com
Doubles from € 1.810
The new Aquazzura Bar is tucked away in the hidden courtyard of the historic hotel—one of the most striking features of this elegant property. Spanning 2,800 square meters, the expansive terraced garden is a lush oasis filled with palm trees, climbing roses, yews, and vibrant flowers—right in the heart of the bustling city. Perhaps it was this very garden that inspired French poet Jean Cocteau to call the hotel a “paradise on earth” back in 1917. With the addition of the Aquazzura Bar, this paradise has just gained a new dimension.
Two custom-designed awnings frame the bar. On the outside, they feature the brand’s signature black-and-white stripes, while the interior is adorned with a whimsical Secret Garden pattern. The design is predominantly botanical, reminiscent of 18th-century illustrations, with lush green butterflies and birds taking center stage. The inspiration came from the Aquazzura Casa Secret tableware collection. Complementing the look are hand-painted Portuguese tiles with delicate lemon motifs—a nod to Italy’s iconic citrus groves.
The pièce de résistance, however, is the bar itself. Its design was entrusted to the studio Casa do Passadiço. Elegant metal furnishings, tufted chairs, plush sofas, green trellises, and lemon trees in striped pots all come together to create a charming garden atmosphere—one that invites guests not just for one drink, but several. And you won’t want to miss them: the cocktail menu is the work of two seasoned pros. Federico Pavan designed it, Matteo Capezzuolo brings it to life, and Edgardo Osorio—the founder of Aquazzura and a devoted tequila enthusiast—provided the inspiration. A full-circle moment, indeed.
Each month, the bar features a new twist on the Margarita—made with fine tequila, fresh lime juice, and seasonal fruits—shaken up alongside a tequila-based take on the classic Martini. To pair with the drinks, a refined selection of tapas is served. And who better to curate this than Fulvio Pierangelini himself, the Creative Food Director of Rocco Forte Hotels? A side note: Pierangelini’s signature style has recently made its way to the Rocco Forte Hotel The Charles in Munich, where his new restaurant Florio has taken the place of the former Sophia’s.
Naturally, every detail is perfectly coordinated. The tapas are artfully presented on exquisite Aquazzura Casa porcelain; the cutlery, table linens, and décor—nothing is left to chance. It’s a concept that unites Aquazzura and Rocco Forte: a shared commitment to the highest standards of quality.
Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Via del Babuino, 9, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 328881 - roccofortehotels.com
Doubles from € 1.810
