In Rome, food is (supposed to be) seasonal. And carciofi alla romana, or stewed artichokes, are in season from late November through early spring. Yes you will find artichokes in Rome before then. But they are not from Rome, and they won't be made alla romana. They will be fried (alla giudia), or used in other dishes like pasta or anchovy casseroles. Nothing wrong with those fabulous dishes.But if you love carciofi alla romana, as I do, you can start indulging in late November.