Rome is a culinary paradise, offering a delectable tapestry of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. From traditional Roman trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants, the Eternal City has something to please every palate.
Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure!
Traditional Roman Delights
For an authentic Roman experience, dive into the city’s traditional trattorias. These family-run gems offer a taste of history, serving up classic dishes that have been passed down through generations.
Rome’s premier deli features a fabulous in-house restaurant, offering a delightful selection of traditional Italian fare and classic international dishes. With its limited space and consistently high-quality food, this establishment is a must-visit.
Step into a cozy, traditional family-run trattoria nestled in the heart of the touristy Pantheon area. Renowned locally for its unwavering commitment to authentic Roman cuisine, this popular spot often attracts crowds and reservations are highly recommended.
Indulge in the rich flavors of regional food from Emilia-Romagna at this acclaimed restaurant. Delight in cured Parma ham, parmesan cheese, and rich meat sauces paired with homemade egg pastas. It’s a short walk from the iconic Trevi Fountain, making it a convenient stop during your sightseeing adventures.
Escape the tourist crowds and discover a charming trattoria that offers a taste of true Roman cuisine in a non-touristy environment. Their menu features a range of local and regional Italian dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring a delightful and flavorful dining experience.
In the foodie haven of Testaccio, you’ll find a hugely popular trattoria that flies the flag for traditional Roman nose-to-tail cooking. Prepare to be amazed by dishes like tripe and coda alla vaccinara (oxtail), a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of Rome.
Pizza Perfection
Rome is renowned for its pizza, and the city boasts an array of pizzerias serving up delicious slices. Whether you prefer wood-fired pizzas with traditional toppings or innovative variations, you’re sure to find a pizzeria that satisfies your cravings.
Savor the delectable flavors of wood-fired pizzas in a stylish, modern pizzeria. Their pizzas are topped with the finest southern Italian mozzarella, cured meats, and fresh seasonal vegetables. One of the few places that serve pizza at lunchtime, it’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Embrace the affordability and deliciousness of pizza by the slice at this beloved spot. Known for their crispy crust and wide variety of toppings, they offer a truly satisfying pizza experience. While seating is limited, you can grab your pizza to go and enjoy it amidst the ruins of Largo di Torre Argentina, the site of Caesar’s assassination.
Discover the legend of Rome’s best pizza al taglio (sliced pizza) at this iconic takeaway. Their squares of feather-light dough, topped with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and assorted vegetables, are a testament to the art of pizza making. Located about 10 minutes’ walk from the Vatican Museums, it’s a convenient pit stop after a day of exploring.
This bustling bakery is famed for its sliced pizza, particularly the house specialty – pizza bianca (white pizza). These unadorned rectangles of pizza base, seasoned with salt and olive oil, are perfect for a quick snack or a budget-friendly lunch.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this casually cool spot, specializing in Neapolitan street food and comfort food. Their menu features a variety of delicious options, including fried pizza, pasta, panini, tiramisu, and Moka pot coffee.
Culinary Delights beyond Pizza
While pizza takes center stage in Rome, the city offers a diverse range of culinary delights that will leave you wanting more.
Experience the art of supplì (fried rice croquettes) at this gourmet takeaway. From the classic supplì, stuffed with rice, tomato, and cheese, to a selection of creative variations, there’s a supplì for every taste. Enjoy your supplì inside the brick-clad interior or take it to go.
If you’re seeking a taste of authentic Roman street food, head to this Testaccio market stall. Their panini (bread rolls) filled with slow-cooked beef are a local favorite, so expect crowds during lunchtime.
For a diverse food hall experience, visit Termini station’s three-story culinary haven. Stalls line the towering brick vaults, serving everything from pizzas and pastas to veggie burgers, salads, sushi, and shakes.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Culture
Indulge your sweet tooth with a scoop or two of gelato, a true Roman delight. The city boasts a plethora of gelaterias offering a variety of flavors and textures.
Savor the rich, homemade gelato topped with your choice of macaron at this decadent gelato shop. Opt for hazelnut or pistachio gelato, or enjoy a dairy-free variety.
Discover some of the best gelato in Rome at this gelateria near the Pantheon. They specialize in chocolate, featuring creamy ice creams, drinks, and dolci (sweets), so be prepared for a delicious and potentially long wait.
Rome’s coffee culture is as strong as its espresso. From traditional cafes to modern hangouts, there are countless spots to enjoy a perfect cup of coffee.
Experience the best espresso in Rome at this famous cafe, situated between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. While the cafe is a workaday place, it’s ideal for a quick stand-up coffee.
This cool all-day hangout offers a relaxed vibe and shabby-chic furniture, making it the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or evening cocktails and jazz.
Step back in time at this model old-school cafe with wood-lined decor and waistcoated bar staff. Indulge in their house specialty, caffè al cioccolato, an exquisite espresso served in a demitasse lined with melted chocolate.
This landmark cafe near the Pantheon serves superb coffee, best enjoyed standing at the long wooden bar. In the summer, try a granita di caffè, a refreshing blend of coffee, crushed ice, and whipped cream.
This elegant cafe offers a delightful combination of great coffee, indulgent sandwiches, and divine mini-pastries. Don’t miss the maritozzi (sweet buns packed with whipped cream). While seating is limited, you can enjoy your coffee and pastry standing at the bar or in the small back room.
For inspiring views with your coffee, head to the Capitoline Museums’ cafe. This stunning spot offers memorable panoramas from its elegant terrace. Even without a museum ticket, you can access the cafe through Palazzo Caffarelli just off Piazza del Campidoglio.
Escape the bustling city streets and enjoy a tranquil coffee or light lunch at this cafe, nestled in an elegant Renaissance cloister just behind Piazza Navona.
Step into Rome’s oldest cafe, a historical haunt of notable figures like Casanova, Goethe, Byron, and Keats. While it’s now a popular tourist destination and slightly expensive, it exudes a palpable sense of history. Save a few euros by enjoying your drink at the bar.
This cafe, housed in the one-time studio of sculptor Antonio Canova, offers a unique setting for a coffee or drink. Surrounded by marble busts and figures, this cafe provides a truly Roman experience. While the drinks are good, avoid the overpriced food.
This relaxed hangout, filled with books, bricks, mismatched furniture, and bold colors, is the perfect spot for a casual drink or a chat with friends. Enjoy a glass of wine, cocktails, or tea in the village-like Monti neighborhood.
Bon appetit!
