Ever dreamed of dining like a Roman emperor? Rome isn’t just about history and food; it’s about history in your food! This city is a culinary time capsule, and you don’t have to choose between ruins and ravioli.
Get ready to dive into the heart of ancient Rome, one bite at a time!
Where Ancient Roman Food is Still on the Menu:
Forget tomatoes and chocolate! The first emperor of Rome, Caesar Augustus, had many slaves, and his freed slaves were buried in columbaria, small niche tombs. Hostaria Antica Roma is nestled within one of these structures, offering a menu straight out of ancient Rome. No post-Columbian ingredients here! Instead, their dishes are inspired by a Latin recipe book attributed to Marcus Gavius Apicius, a 1st century A.D. foodie. Prepare yourself for a taste of Roman history unlike any other!
Dish to try: Patina cotidiana, a savory blend of egg and vegetables, reminiscent of an omelet or a tomato-free lasagna.
Dining Amongst the Tombs of Emperors:
Caesar Augustus and his wealthy contemporaries had grand tombs built to impress. Imagine a structure so magnificent, it was dedicated to holding just one small urn! These tombs lined the roads leading out of the city, showcasing the family’s wealth and status. Archaeologia on Via Appia is built into one of these ancient graveyards, the perfect place to dine after exploring the Roman countryside.
Dish to try: Ravioli di scampi, a creamy pasta dish featuring succulent prawns.
Where Julius Caesar Met His End:
Julius Caesar wasn’t assassinated in the Forum’s Senate House, which was under construction at the time. He met his fate in the courtyard in front of the Theater of Pompey, now hidden beneath modern buildings. Ristorante da Pancrazio puts you right where history unfolded. Enjoy the ambiance of ancient arches and walls, while savoring a true Roman feast!
Dish to try: Bucatini all’Amatriciana, a hearty pasta dish with a rich red sauce and savory bacon.
Where the Walls Are Made of Ancient Pottery Shards:
Flavio al Velavevodetto is a local favorite known for its delicious meats. But it’s not just the food that makes it special. This restaurant is built into the side of Monte Testaccio, a man-made mountain of ancient Roman trash! The Romans’ love for olive oil led to a mountain of amphorae, vessels used for transporting the precious liquid. Even though the hill is an active archaeological site, you can peek through glass walls and see the ancient amphorae fragments.
Dish to try: Ossobucco con piselli, a flavorful veal dish with peas.
Where the Wine Cellar Dates Back to 80 B.C.:
Trastevere, meaning “across the Tiber River”, was once home to the Jewish community before they settled in the Ghetto. Today, you can still see Hebrew inscriptions from its early inhabitants at a restaurant in Trastevere. This restaurant’s wine cellar dates back to 80 B.C., and houses several historical sculptures that were once displayed in the Vatican Museums. This fascinating space has witnessed centuries of change, from synagogue to convent, and now a restaurant!
Dish to try: The Crème brûlée that everyone raves about!
Where the Baths of Diocletian Still Stand:
Emperor Diocletian‘s massive public baths were a grand addition to ancient Rome. You can visit these baths as a museum, or enter the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, designed by Michelangelo using some of the ruins. But did you know that one part of the bath complex has been transformed into a restaurant? It’s a fantastic choice for families, as the waiters are known for their kindness to children.
Dish to try: The classic and delicious Tiramisù, a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
Where the City Walls Serve as Room Dividers:
While McDonald’s might not be the first place you think of when visiting Italy, this affordable dining location offers a unique historical experience. The city’s major train station is called Termini, from the Latin thermi (meaning “heat”), referring to the nearby Baths of Diocletian. The ruins you see while waiting for your train are not from the baths, but the remnants of an ancient city wall built over 600 years ago, during the reign of King Servius Tullius.
Dish to try: Potato slices with herbal topping.
So next time you’re in Rome, skip the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary! Eat where emperors dined, explore the ruins of ancient cities, and savor a truly Roman experience! These restaurants are a testament to the rich history of Rome, where the past and present collide in every bite.
