Terroir [the-RWAHR] French. Literally terrain. Figuratively a sense of place. Originally used to refer to the particular qualities that soil and climate bestow on wine, terroir now also describes more generally the way local influences–not only geography but culture, history, tradition, and individuals as well–are uniquely expressed in the character of a region’s food and wine. Food Wine Rome is a tightly focused guidebook and traveler’s companion to the culinary delights of Rome. For each neighborhood, listings are in three categories: 1) dining; 2) gourmet shopping; 3) wine. A dozen or more sidebars add entertaining and informative bits of city lore, culture, customs, quotes, and anecdotes to bring alive the city’s historic culinary richness. A glossary of essential Roman/Italian food terms helps make shopping, marketing, and eating fun and rewarding. It is illustrated with scores of atmospheric photographs and an overall map of central Rome, plus detailed maps for each of Rome’s nine central neighborhoods, so that readers can find addresses immediately.