Rome is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from traditional trattorias to bustling street food stalls. Whether you’re craving a plate of creamy carbonara or a crispy supplì, the Eternal City has something to satisfy every palate. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Rome, including must-try dishes and local dining tips.
1. Must-Try Roman Dishes
Before diving into the best places to eat, here are some classic Roman dishes you can’t leave without trying:
- Carbonara – A rich pasta dish made with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.
- Cacio e Pepe – Simple yet delicious pasta with pecorino cheese and black pepper.
- Amatriciana – A spicy tomato-based pasta with guanciale and pecorino.
- Supplì – A deep-fried rice ball filled with gooey mozzarella.
- Porchetta – Slow-roasted pork with crispy skin, often served in sandwiches.
- Maritozzo – A sweet bun filled with whipped cream, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Now, let’s explore where to find the best versions of these dishes!
2. Best Trattorias for Traditional Roman Cuisine
a) Trattoria Pennestri
📍 Via Giovanni da Empoli, 5
A cozy, modern trattoria offering authentic Roman dishes with a twist. Their homemade carbonara is among the best in town.
b) Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina
📍 Via dei Giubbonari, 21
A mix of a deli and a restaurant, Roscioli is famous for Cacio e Pepe and its high-quality cured meats and cheeses. Reservations are essential!
c) Da Enzo al 29
📍 Via dei Vascellari, 29 (Trastevere)
A small but legendary spot in Trastevere. Try their Amatriciana and fried artichokes (Carciofi alla Giudia). Get there early to avoid long lines.
3. Best Pizza in Rome
a) Pizzarium
📍 Via della Meloria, 43
Run by Gabriele Bonci, this spot is famous for pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) with creative toppings like figs, gorgonzola, and prosciutto.
b) Antico Forno Roscioli
📍 Via dei Chiavari, 34
If you love thin, crispy Roman-style pizza, this historic bakery is a must-visit. Try the Pizza Bianca with mortadella.
c) Seu Pizza Illuminati
📍 Via Angelo Bargoni, 10
For a modern take on pizza, this spot offers gourmet toppings and perfectly fermented dough.
4. Best Street Food Spots
a) Trapizzino
📍 Multiple locations
A modern Roman invention, trapizzino is a triangular pizza pocket filled with classic Roman stews like chicken cacciatore or oxtail. A must-try!
b) Supplì Roma
📍 Via di San Francesco a Ripa, 137
This tiny shop in Trastevere serves the best supplì in town—deep-fried rice balls with a molten mozzarella center.
c) Panificio Bonci
📍 Via Trionfale, 34/36
A bakery famous for porchetta sandwiches and pizza bianca.
5. Best Gelato in Rome
a) Gelateria del Teatro
📍 Via dei Coronari, 65
Famous for its fresh, artisanal gelato with unique flavors like sage and raspberry.
b) Fatamorgana
📍 Multiple locations
This organic gelateria specializes in natural flavors, like chocolate with chili and basil with walnuts.
c) Giolitti
📍 Via degli Uffici del Vicario, 40
One of Rome’s most famous gelato shops, operating since 1900! Try their pistachio or tiramisu gelato.
6. Best Coffee and Breakfast Spots
a) Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè
📍 Piazza Sant’Eustachio, 82
Famous for its rich, creamy espresso, a must for coffee lovers.
b) Tazza d’Oro
📍 Via degli Orfani, 84
Located near the Pantheon, this café is known for its Granita di Caffè (coffee slush with whipped cream).
c) Maritozzo Rosso
📍 Vicolo del Cedro, 26
Try a maritozzo, a fluffy bun filled with whipped cream—perfect with a cappuccino.
7. Best Markets for Food Lovers
a) Mercato di Testaccio
📍 Via Aldo Manuzio, 66b
A local food market with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat meals. Try the famous sandwiches from Mordi e Vai.
b) Campo de’ Fiori Market
📍 Piazza Campo de’ Fiori
A bustling open-air market with fresh fruits, spices, and olive oil.
c) Eataly Rome
📍 Piazzale 12 Ottobre 1492
A food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of restaurants, food stalls, and gourmet grocery shopping.
8. Tips for Dining in Rome
✔ Reserve in advance – Popular restaurants fill up quickly, so book ahead.
✔ Avoid tourist traps – Restaurants near major attractions often have overpriced, low-quality food. Look for places where locals eat.
✔ Don’t expect dinner before 7:30 PM – Italians eat late, and many restaurants open for dinner around 7:30-8 PM.
✔ Know your coffee etiquette – Order cappuccino only in the morning, and stick to espresso after meals.
✔ Tipping is not required – Service is usually included in the bill, but leaving small change is appreciated.
Final Thoughts
Rome is a food lover’s dream, offering everything from traditional pasta dishes to innovative pizza and world-class gelato. Whether you’re dining in a cozy trattoria or grabbing a quick bite on the street, every meal in the Eternal City is an experience to savor.
So, come hungry, explore the flavors of Rome, and enjoy every delicious bite! 🍝🍷🍨