The Art of Cocktail Couture: Introducing Aquazzura Bar

Sometimes, the best ideas start in the most unexpected places. Often as a conversation between friends, perhaps over a drink. And so it was for Lydia Forte and Edgardo Osorio, Founder and Creative Director of Aquazzura whose shared vision led to the creation of Aquazzura Bar, a seasonal cocktail bar in the Secret Garden of Hotel de Russie. We sat down with them over a Margarita – what else? – to find out more…

"Edgardo and I dreamed up Aquazzura Bar amid holiday’s ease - relaxed, laughing, surrounded by friends - and aimed to bottle that vibe," Lydia recalls.

Meeting Lydia and Edgardo, you get the sense that this partnership was simply meant to be. “Just as Rocco Forte Hotels embodies hospitality and refined elegance, Aquazzura brings a place of playfulness,” Lydia explains. “Maybe they didn’t know but I like to think it was subconscious, even the pineapple in the Aquazzura brand logo is a symbol of hospitality and food.”

Aquazzura Bar is about the feeling it evokes— warmth, ease, and connection. “I want it to feel cosy, comfortable, yet utterly dreamy and beautiful - a place that embodies Italian elegance but with an intimate, personal touch,”  Edgardo says. 

“Innately happy and overall, we want our people to have fun!” Lydia exclaims when asked how she -wants guests to feel. “A little bit like Edgardo and I did when we conceived the concept – free from everyday cares, enjoying good company and excited about where the evening could take us.”

At its heart, the bar is a seamless blend of the two brands. For Lydia, the partnership was a chance to introduce a fresh and vibrant new experience within the Secret Garden, complementing the elegance of Le Jardin and Stravinskij Bar. For Edgardo, the location was an undeniable match: “The garden is already one of the most enchanting places in Rome, but we infused it with even more personality. The Aquazzura Secret Garden patterns, the intricate detailing, hand-painted lemon tiles, and overall ambience transport you to a dreamlike Italian setting – where every element is considered, yet effortlessly chic.”

The drinks menu, curated by mixologists Federico Pavan and Mattia Capezzuoli, takes inspiration from classic tequila cocktails, elevated with an Italian sensibility. “They have the skill and culture to reinvent the classic Margarita in a way that is original and yet refined with a balanced flavour profile and perfect execution,” Lydia says. “We wanted each drink to feel special, crafted with detail, precision, and a touch of magic. Every sip should transport you,” adds Edgardo. 

Tequila, a personal favourite of Edgardo’s, takes centre stage. “It’s such a vibrant spirit. For me, no party or night is ever boring when it starts with a great Margarita!” as Edgardo emphasises.

Food, too, plays an essential role in the experience. Chef Fulvio Pierangelini has designed a menu that blends Latin American influences with Italian ingredients, such as grilled octopus glazed with chimichurri and mini tacos with spicy beef, ajo blanco and oyster.

Tucked away in the heart of the Secret Garden, Aquazzura Bar brings a new rhythm to Roman life. Whether it’s a long afternoon among friends or a cocktail before dinner, this is the Eternal City at its best – refined, relaxed, and waiting to be discovered.

Aquazzura Bar is open at Hotel de Russie from April to October. To book your table, please contact the Reservations team.