Forget the well-worn pasta trio of cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and carbonara – while they’re delicious, they’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Roman cuisine. Rome is a city steeped in culinary tradition, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Join us as we explore the city’s most classic dishes, from street food to sweet treats, and where to find them.
Classic Dishes: A Taste of Roman Tradition
Cacio e Pepe: A Simple Masterpiece
This iconic pasta dish is a symphony of simplicity. Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper are the stars of the show, creating a creamy, peppery delight. For an authentic experience, head to Ristorante Al Pompiere, housed in a historic palazzo with frescoed ceilings. Their cacio e pepe with tonnarelli, Rome’s long, squiggly pasta, will transport you back in time.
Carbonara: A Rich and Creamy Indulgence
Another Roman staple, carbonara is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients. Egg yolks are tossed into cooked pasta at the perfect moment, transforming into a velvety sauce, joined by pecorino cheese and guanciale, Rome’s beloved cured pork jowl. For a sublime version, visit Trecca, a “neo-trattoria” in the edgy Garbatella neighborhood. Their rigatoni alla carbonara offers an ideal balance of flavors and textures, a true celebration of this classic dish.
Amatriciana: A Spicy and Savory Delight
This red-sauce pasta features the same guanciale as carbonara, but with the addition of tomato sauce and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. La Matriciana, aptly named for this dish, offers a traditional experience. Step into this elegant restaurant, established in 1870, and enjoy their bucatini alla matriciana, the thick pasta perfectly coated in the saucy goodness.
Beyond Pasta: Exploring Roman Delights
Pizza al Taglio: Slices of Roman Goodness
While Naples may be known for its pizza, Romans have their own unique style, pizza al taglio, or pizza by the slice. Casa Manco in the Mercato di Testaccio, a vibrant food market, offers some of the best. Their dough, made with organic flours and given a 100-hour rise, produces a flavorful, crispy crust. From the classic pizza rossa and Margherita to seasonal combinations like pumpkin and speck or fennel, orange, and olive, there’s a slice for every taste.
Supplì: A Crispy and Cheesy Treat
Supplì are small, fried balls of rice, cooked like risotto, with a gooey, cheesy surprise inside. These street food staples are often found on restaurant menus, especially pizzerias, but you can also find them in bakeries and street food eateries. Antico Forno Roscioli, the bakery of the renowned Roscioli restaurant family, is a great place to try various flavors of supplì. Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Carciofi alla Giudia: Crispy Fried Artichokes
Romans love their artichokes, and carciofi alla giudia, fried to a crispy perfection, are a true culinary delight. This Roman Jewish tradition involves twice-frying the artichokes until they’re incredibly crunchy, seasoned with nothing but salt. While carciofi alla romana (Roman artichokes), cooked with herbs, garlic, and olive oil, can be found at many restaurants, Nonna Betta in the Jewish Ghetto is the place to go for the authentic carciofi alla giudia. Order one for yourself, you won’t regret it!
Sweet Treats: A Delicious Ending to Your Roman Adventure
Maritozzo: A Whipped Cream Dream
The maritozzo is a classic Roman pastry, a brioche-like bun stuffed with thick whipped cream. Imagine a rounded ice cream sandwich, but with a sweet, slightly chewy bun. Bar San Calisto in Trastevere is a legendary spot to enjoy a maritozzo. Grab a table outside and watch the locals go by as you savor this delightful treat.
Gelato: A Symphony of Flavors
Gelato is a must-have in Rome, and Gelateria Torcè is a local gem. They use artisanal methods and fresh ingredients to create daily rotating flavors, from classics like black sesame and zabaione to seasonal fruit sorbetti and savory options. Head to their location near the Circus Maximus for a taste of authentic Roman gelato.
Tiramisù: A Creamy and Coffee-Infused Indulgence
While many cities claim to be the birthplace of tiramisù, Rome definitely knows how to do it right. Da Felice, an institution in the Testaccio neighborhood, serves a perfect version of this iconic dessert. Their tiramisù is presented in a chic glass, topped with a touch of chocolate sauce, showcasing the perfect balance of mascarpone custard, cookies, and coffee.
Rome: A Gastronomic Adventure Awaits
Rome is a haven for food lovers, offering a captivating culinary experience. From the simple elegance of cacio e pepe to the crispy perfection of carciofi alla giudia, each dish tells a story of Roman tradition. Indulge in the cheesy goodness of supplì, savor the rich and creamy carbonara, and finish your meal on a sweet note with refreshing gelato. Ready to embark on this gastronomic adventure? Which foods will you try in Rome first?
