Roma

Eat Your Way Through Rome: A Culinary Pilgrimage

Rome isn’t a city you visit—it’s a city you devour. It demands that you throw yourself into its chaos, its beauty, its history, and, most of all, its food. From Trastevere’s cobbled streets to Testaccio’s lively markets, every bite tells the story of empire and rebellion, poverty and excess. Forget the diet. Rome’s cuisine isn’t about restraint—it’s about tradition, indulgence, and passion.

THE ICONS OF ROMAN CUISINE

Some meals in Rome transcend the act of dining—they are rituals. If you want to eat like a true Roman, start with these essential dishes:

•Cacio e Pepe – Simplicity at its finest: pecorino, black pepper, pasta.

•Carbonara – Egg yolk, guanciale, pecorino—no cream, never ever.

•Amatriciana – A rich, smoky tomato sauce with guanciale and pecorino.

•Alla Gricia-crispy guanciale, a little pasta water, pecorino and black pepper.

•Saltimbocca alla Romana – Veal, prosciutto, and sage, perfectly seared.

And while countless trattorie serve these classics, some places rise above the rest—shrines to Cucina Romana.

THE LEGENDS: WHERE TRADITION REIGNS

•Salumeria Roscioli (Centro Storico)

A Salumeria-turned-restaurant serving Rome’s most unforgettable carbonara. Pair it with their legendary burrata Pugliese and semi-dried tomatoes.

•Armando al Pantheon (Pantheon)

A rite of passage. Family-run since 1961, this Michelin-recognized trattoria is known for saltimbocca, carbonara, and a daring quinto quarto (offal-based) tasting menu.

•Flavio al Velavevodetto (Testaccio)

Perched on Monte dei Cocci, this institution perfects rigatoni all’amatriciana and cacio e pepe. Don’t skip the polpette di bollito (boiled meatballs).

•Cesare al Casaletto (Gianicolense)

Far from tourists, known for fritti (fried starters) and pollo alla romana (chicken stewed with peppers).

•La Tavernaccia (Trastevere)

La Tavernaccia da Bruno is a Roman classic, where slow-cooked traditions meet the warmth of a family-run trattoria. Their wood-fired pappardelle al cinghiale is rich and deeply savory, while the roast suckling pig emerges crisp and crackling. Rustic, unpretentious, and effortlessly delicious, it’s a place that proves simplicity is the heart of great cooking.

TRATTORIE WORTH THE PILGRIMAGE

These are the places where Romans eat. No frills, just time-honored tradition.

•Da Enzo al 29 (Trastevere): A cozy trattoria across the Ponte Palatino where checkered tablecloths and wine-lined walls welcome you. The amatriciana, carbonara, and trippa alla romana are standout dishes, all made with high-quality ingredients and a touch of Roman tradition. No reservations, so expect a wait, especially during lunch.

•Trattoria da Teo (Trastevere)

A local favorite where cacio e pepe is pure perfection.

•Alla Rampa (Centro Storico)

Tucked away near the Spanish Steps, Alla Rampa attracts locals and savvy tourists with its shaded terrace and flawlessly executed Roman classics like bucatini alla gricia. Service is brisk, but the food speaks for itself. Reservations are recommended, but lunch walk-ins may get lucky.

•Al Moro (Trevi)

An old-school gem serving spaghetti alla Moro, a bold, deeply satisfying take on carbonara.

•Luzzi (Colosseo)

No-nonsense, hearty Roman classics like mezze maniche all’amatriciana.

•Hosteria Grappolo d’Oro (Campo de’ Fiori)

Traditional, soulful dishes like stracotto di manzo (slow-braised beef).

•Taverna Romana (Monti)

A cozy spot famous for carciofi alla giudia (fried artichokes) and abbacchio alla scottadito (grilled lamb chops).

•Piatto Romano (Testaccio)

A neighborhood staple known for pajata (intestine-based pasta) and frittura mista.

•Sora Lella (Isola Tiberina): A beloved Roman-Jewish restaurant that brings together traditional Roman-Jewish cuisine with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.

•Apuleius Roma Ristorante (Centro Storico): A contemporary fusion of Roman and Mediterranean flavors, offering dishes that highlight the best of both culinary worlds.

•Casa Coppelle (Centro Storico): Elegant and refined, Casa Coppelle combines French and Italian culinary traditions with a romantic atmosphere and sophisticated menu.

•Filetti di Baccalà (Centro Storico): Famous for its deep-fried battered salt cod, this spot offers one of Rome’s best examples of the beloved Roman street food.

NEO - TRATTORIE: A FRESH TAKE ON A NEW TRADITION

These restaurants bring a modern twist to Roman culinary traditions, showcasing bold flavors and innovative approaches to classic dishes.

•Trecca (Trastevere): Trecca (Trastevere): Run by two brothers with a passion for Roman cuisine, Trecca puts a bold, modern spin on tradition. Their menu highlights high-quality, sustainable ingredients, with standouts like perfectly crispy fried chicken and inventive yet authentic pasta dishes. A must-visit for those looking to experience Rome’s culinary heritage with a fresh perspective.

•Mazzo (Pigneto): A contemporary gem that blends Roman culinary heritage with bold new flavors. Mazzo frequently changes its menu to reflect seasonal ingredients and inventive cooking techniques.

•Tram Tram (San Lorenzo): Offering a blend of Roman and Pugliese influences, Tram Tram emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, especially seafood. It’s a casual yet stylish place to enjoy contemporary Roman cooking.

•Santo Palato (San Giovanni): Chef Sarah Cicolini brings creative sustainability to the table with her offal-inspired dishes. Santo Palato is a modern take on traditional Roman flavors, offering unique dishes like tripe and liver, all made from locally sourced ingredients.

•Al Velavevodetto (Testaccio): Situated in the historic Testaccio neighborhood, this spot specializes in classic Roman dishes like tonnarelli cacio e pepe, trippa alla romana, and other hearty, traditional favorites.

•Romane (Centro Storico): Romane is dedicated to crafting traditional Roman dishes, including sugo di coda (oxtail ragu) and beef tongue with salsa verde, offering a deep dive into the classic flavors of Rome.

ROMAN STREET FOOD: PANINI & PORCHETTA

Rome’s panini are a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. From crispy porchetta sandwiches to pillowy pizza bianca stuffed with mortadella, each bite showcases top-quality ingredients and makes for an elevated street food experience.

•La Norcineria Iacozzilli (Trionfale Market)

A classic in Rome, native to nearby Ariccia—the porchetta with its crisp, herb-stuffed roast pork, stuffed inside crusty bread-here is the best in the city.

•Mordi e Vai (Testaccio Market)

Unbeatable panino, including coda alla vaccinara (oxtail) and trippa alla romana.

•Antico Forno Roscioli (Centro Storico)

Famous for its crispy pizza bianca filled with fatty aromatic mortadella the simple and perfect panini

PIZZE: A SLICE OF ROMAN LIFE

Rome’s pizza scene is an education—thin, crisp pizza tonda and airy, flavorful pizza al taglio.

• Pizzarium (Vatican): Gabriele Bonci’s famed pizza al taglio spot. Toppings change daily, but the potato and mozzarella slice is a must. Note: Ideal for casual bites; it’s a takeout-style spot, so not a sit-down experience.

• Emma Pizzeria (Campo de’ Fiori): Perfectly executed pizza romana with a delicate, crispy crust. Note: Great for dinner with a sit-down atmosphere.

• Trappizzino (Various locations): A genius mix of pizza and street food, featuring dough pockets stuffed with braised meats. Note: Casual and quick, ideal for a grab-and-go bite.

• Tonda (Montesacro): Classic Roman pizza with creative twists—don’t miss the Pizza Ortolana (roasted vegetables & ricotta). Note: Dinner only, sit-down vibe.

• Sbanco (San Giovanni): Home of the legendary Cacio e Pepe pizza, where ice is used to cool the cheese while cooking. Note: Dinner-only, great for a more relaxed sit-down experience.

• 180 Grammi (Centocelle): A pizza lover’s paradise, serving Pizza Tartufata with truffle cream and arugula. Note: A sit-down place perfect for a dinner out.

• Sbanco (Pigneto): Known for its creative toppings and craft beer selection, Sbanco offers innovative pizzas that push the boundaries of the traditional pizza experience. Note: Sit-down dinner, great ambiance.

• La Gatta Mangiona (Monteverde): With artisan dough and creative toppings, La Gatta Mangiona elevates Roman pizza with a perfect balance of crunch and chew, offering inventive flavors alongside classic favorites. Note: Dinner-only, sit-down, casual yet charming atmosphere.

• Piccolo Buco (Centro Storico): A stone’s throw from the Trevi Fountain, Piccolo Buco offers expertly crafted Neapolitan-style pizza with a perfect balance of chewy crust and fresh toppings. It’s a small, cozy spot where every pie is treated like a work of art. Note: Ideal for dinner, cozy sit-down.

• Pizzeria ai Marmi (Trastevere): Known for its classic Roman thin-crust pizza, this no-frills institution is a must-visit for pizza lovers. The perfectly charred, crispy crust and simple, high-quality ingredients make for a quintessential Roman experience. Note: Dinner-only, classic sit-down experience.

• Da Remo (Testaccio): Renowned for its traditional Roman pizza, Da Remo serves up one of the best in the city. Expect a thin, crispy crust and classic toppings that transport you straight to the heart of Roman pizza culture. Note: A casual sit-down joint, great for dinner.

• Li Rioni (Trastevere): This unpretentious pizzeria offers excellent Roman-style pizza with a crispy, thin crust and flavorful toppings. A neighborhood favorite for locals and visitors alike, it’s the perfect spot for a no-nonsense pizza experience. Note: Dinner only, no-frills but perfect for a sit-down.

• Dal Paino (Trastevere): Famous for its ultra-crunchy Roman pizza, Dal Paino serves some of the city’s most satisfying pies. The combination of quality ingredients and a perfectly crisp crust makes it a must-try for pizza purists. Note: Dinner-only, great for a sit-down meal.

• Pizzeria Ostiense (Ostiense): With a variety of delicious pizzas and fried starters, Pizzeria Ostiense offers a great selection of Roman-style pizzas in a casual setting. The perfect place for a laid-back meal with great flavors. Note: Sit-down with a more relaxed vibe.

• Seu Pizza Illuminati (San Giovanni): A cutting-edge pizzeria run by some of Italy’s top pizzaioli, Seu Pizza Illuminati offers gourmet pies with unique combinations of fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s the place to go for inventive, high-quality pizzas that push the boundaries. Note: Sit-down, perfect for a gourmet pizza dinner.

ENOTECHE (Wine Bars)

• Enoteca L’Antidoto (Monti): Cozy wine bar with an excellent natural wine selection.

• Enoteca Bortone (Centro Storico): Hidden gem with a fantastic wine list.

• Latteria Trastevere (Trastevere): A great spot for natural wines paired with unique Sardinian cheeses.

• Barnaba (Testaccio): Trendy with biodynamic wines and delicious small plates.

• L’Angolo Divino (Centro Storico): Known for an impressive collection of low-intervention wines and rare bottles.

PASTICCERIE & CAFFÈ

• Bar Calista (Centro Storico): A cozy spot to enjoy traditional maritozzi, a fluffy bun filled with whipped cream. A must-try for those craving a sweet Roman breakfast.

• Faro (Monti): Known for excellent specialty coffee, Faro also serves an inventive brunch menu that highlights local ingredients and a variety of fresh pastries, making it a popular hangout.

• Sant’Eustachio (Centro Storico): A Roman institution, famed for its unique coffee blend. This historic café, near the Pantheon, also offers delicious pastries and tasteful merchandise for take home gifts, a true experience.

• Antico Forno Roscioli (Centro Storico): An iconic bakery where you’ll find delicious pizza, freshly baked bread, and classic Italian deli items. Don’t miss their famous pizza bianca.

• Pasticceria Bompiani (Boccea): This charming bakery specializes in traditional pastries, with an emphasis on using seasonal ingredients for maximum flavor and authenticity.

• Marigold (Trastevere): A Scandinavian-inspired café offering a mix of contemporary pastries, artisan coffee, and a vibrant brunch menu. Perfect for a casual yet stylish breakfast.

• Regoli (Esquilino): A beloved family-run pastry shop, famous for its maritozzi filled with sweet cream. Their pastries are a local staple, especially during the holidays.

• Boccione (Ghetto): This Jewish bakery, situated in the historic Jewish Ghetto, is known for its burnt ricotta cake and other traditional Jewish-Roman pastries.

• Biscottificio Innocenti (Centro Storico): This charming biscuit shop has been serving classic Italian cookies for decades. A hidden gem, it’s perfect for grabbing a sweet treat to go.

SALUMERIE & FORNI (Delis & Bakeries)

• Antico Forno Roscioli (Centro Storico): Renowned for its artisan bread, including pizza bianca, and top-quality deli products like cured meats and cheeses. It’s a must-visit for food lovers looking to sample classic Roman flavors.

• Salumeria Roscioli (Centro Storico): This family-run salumeria offers premium cured meats, cheeses, and gourmet products, making it a standout in Rome’s culinary scene.

• Forno Campo de’ Fiori (Campo de’ Fiori): Famous for its pizza bianca, this bakery is an institution, offering fresh, traditional Roman bread and pastries.

• Antica Salumeria (Centro Storico): Situated near the Pantheon, this historic deli is known for its selection of cheeses, cured meats, and Italian pantry staples. It’s an ideal spot to stock up on high-quality provisions.

• Salumeria Volpetti (Testaccio): A Roman institution in Testaccio, Volpetti offers a fantastic range of artisanal cured meats and cheeses, along with Italian gourmet goods. A must-visit for culinary connoisseurs.

GELATERIE (Gelaterias)

• Marave (Prati): Known for its artisanal approach, Marave creates gelato with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• Otaleg (San Giovanni): A standout for its creative flavor combinations, “Otaleg” is gelato spelled backward, offering a unique twist on classic favorites.

• Il Gelato di Claudio Torcè (Monti): Famous for its daring flavor combinations, this shop pushes the boundaries of gelato.

• Fassi Gelateria (Esquilino): A Roman institution, offering classic Sicilian-style gelato and rich, nostalgic flavors.

• Günther Gelato Italiano (Centro Storico): A sleek modern gelato bar known for its delicate flavors, including Ricotta Stregata.

• Come Il Latte (Sallustiano): Fresh, high-quality gelato with decadent toppings and a creamy texture.

• Brivido Gelateria (Testaccio): Famous for its all-natural gelato made daily with seasonal, local ingredients.

Rome doesn’t follow trends; it creates them. Each meal here is a testament to the idea that great food doesn’t need to be reinvented—just revered. Whether you’re savoring a flawless plate of carbonara, biting into a porchetta panino, or enjoying a crisp slice of pizza al taglio, the true essence of Rome unfolds with every bite.

1: Pantheon

One of the best-preserved ancient monuments in Rome, this former Roman temple is now a church and offers a stunning architectural experience.

2: Villa Borghese

Escape the hustle and bustle and take a leisurely stroll through these beautiful gardens, which also house the famous Borghese Gallery, home to works by Caravaggio and Bernini.

3: Campo de’ Fiori

A lively market square during the day, this area transforms into a hub for nightlife as bars and eateries spill out onto the cobblestone streets.

4: Testaccio Market

A food lover’s paradise, this market not only offers some of the best Roman street food but also provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle away from the typical tourist crowds.

5: Trastevere

Wander through the charming narrow streets of Trastevere, where old-school trattorias and bars give you an authentic taste of Roman life. It’s especially lively at night.

6: The Capitoline Hill

Offering stunning views of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, this hill is home to the Capitoline Museums, which house remarkable ancient Roman sculptures and art.

7: The Catacombs of San Callisto

A fascinating glimpse into early Christian Rome, these catacombs are some of the oldest and most expansive in the city.

8: Villa Doria Pamphili

A tranquil escape from the city’s chaos, this vast park is perfect for a relaxing walk, with beautiful gardens, fountains, and the occasional art exhibition.

9: Basilica di San Clemente

A hidden gem near the Colosseum, this church spans multiple layers of history, with a 12th-century basilica sitting atop a 4th-century church and a 2nd-century Roman house.

10: The Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo)

For a quieter view of Rome, head up to this hill for some of the best panoramic vistas of the city, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the top.

11: Piazza Navona

This picturesque square, home to Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, is perfect for a coffee or gelato while people-watching in the heart of Rome.

12: The Appian Way

One of the oldest and most important roads in ancient Rome, today it’s a peaceful escape for biking, walking, or exploring ancient ruins along the way.

13: Largo di Torre Argentina

Home to the ruins of ancient temples and the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination, this square is also a sanctuary for dozens of stray cats—a quirky and endearing site.

14: Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna

For a taste of modern Italian art, this gallery offers a stunning collection of 19th- and 20th-century works, including pieces by artists like De Chirico and Balla.

15: Mercato di San Giovanni

Less touristy than the more famous markets, this one in the San Giovanni district offers authentic Roman ingredients and a chance to interact with locals.

16: The Colosseum

A hallmark of ancient Rome, this monumental amphitheater, completed in 80 AD, once hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, showcasing the engineering brilliance of its time. Its enduring presence invites visitors to step back into history and marvel at its sheer scale and architectural ingenuity.

17: St. Peter’s Basilica

Situated in Vatican City, is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and architecture. Designed by luminaries such as Michelangelo and Bernini, it is a spiritual and artistic treasure. With its awe-inspiring interiors and the breathtaking views from its dome, the basilica serves as both a place of worship and a testament to human creativity and devotion.