Osteria Ciao Niki

Osteria Ciao Niki is a small Italian osteria at Strada Mihai Eminescu 90 in Sector 2 of Bucharest, Romania, in the Piata Gemeni and Armenian Quarter area. It is known as a hidden neighbourhood address where the cooking follows classic Roman pasta traditions, and it often operates without a printed menu, with staff explaining the choices of the day at the table. The cuisine is Italian, with no Michelin context; the appeal lies in simple preparations and fresh ingredients rather than elaborate plating. Signature dishes include spaghetti carbonara made in the Roman style with egg, pecorino and cured pork, cacio e pepe with pecorino and black pepper, and a daily pasta special announced by the staff. The dining room is small and intimate, with a handful of tables, relaxed service and a low-to-moderate noise level that rises when full; no dress code applies and casual clothing is typical. The beverage programme includes Italian wines by the glass and bottle, aperitifs and espresso, usually in a short list chosen to match the pasta. Prices are mid-range, with pasta dishes roughly 40-70 RON. The restaurant is open about noon to 11PM daily, though hours should be confirmed locally. Because the room is small, reservations are important: visitors can reserve by phone or by messaging the venue, especially for Friday and Saturday dinner, and booking a few days ahead is sensible. Walk-ins may succeed at weekday lunch. The location, on a residential street a short walk from Piata Romana and the Armenian Church, suits travellers who want a quieter meal away from the Old Town, and vegetarian pasta options are generally available on request.