It is said that when Nonna Fortunata opened in 1900, her tavern was frequented by Gabriele D'Annunzio, who particularly appreciated the simplicity of Fortunata's cuisine and the authenticity of the environment, far from pompous salons. It is said that he once recited improvised verses in honor of her famous supplì, describing them as "little bombs of flavor that herald the greatness of Rome."

Sibilla Aleramo, pioneer of Italian feminist literature, was also a loyal customer. She found the trattoria to be an oasis of simplicity and authenticity, a place where she could observe the real life of the Roman people, drawing inspiration for her writings. It is said that she particularly loved Fortunata's pasta and beans, a humble but flavorful dish, symbol of a popular and authentic Rome.

When, in 1950, her daughter decided to reopen the trattoria, carrying on Nonna Fortunata's legacy, Rome was a different city. Italian cinema was enjoying its golden age with Cinecittà, and the capital was teeming with artists, directors, and actors. The "new" Trattoria Nonna Fortunata, while maintaining its roots in tradition, soon became a meeting place for this new wave of celebrities.

Rumor has it that Anna Magnani, icon of neorealist cinema, was a regular customer. Her frank and passionate Roman spirit was reflected in the authenticity of the tavern's cuisine. It is said that she particularly loved carbonara, prepared according to Nonna Fortunata's original recipe, and that she often lingered to chat with her daughter, sharing anecdotes and laughter.

Marcello Mastroianni, with his elegant charm and discreet Roman character, was also a familiar face at the trattoria. He appreciated the simplicity of the restaurant and the authenticity of the dishes, a refuge from the spotlight and high society. It is said that he preferred the more humble traditional dishes, such as pasta and chickpeas or Roman-style tripe, finding in those flavors the taste of his childhood.

In this second phase of its history, Trattoria Nonna Fortunata began to receive some informal recognition. Articles in local magazines and enthusiastic reviews in the emerging media helped to consolidate its reputation as the guardian of authentic Roman cuisine. Although there were no formal awards such as Michelin stars for this type of restaurant at the time, the real reward was the line of people outside the door, eager to taste a piece of Roman history and authenticity. The trattoria became a symbol of a Rome that did not want to forget its roots, a place where time seemed to slow down, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the simplicity and goodness of tradition.