DINING & DISCOVERIES: YOUR GUIDE TO ROME
Discover the enchanting charm of Rome, The Eternal City, where ancient history meets vibrant culture at every corner. Savor exquisite cuisine at renowned restaurants, ranging from traditional trattorias to Michelin-starred dining experiences, each offering a taste of authentic Italian flavors. Explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain, all while wandering through picturesque streets filled with art, history, and stunning architecture. Whether you're indulging in a leisurely meal, sipping coffee in a bustling piazza, or taking in breathtaking views from a rooftop terrace, Rome promises an unforgettable journey through time and taste.
TRADITIONAL ROMAN RESTAURANTS
Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 is an authentic Roman trattoria in Trastevere. Known for its traditional dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe. Do not leave without trying the tiramisu. This trattoria is about as close to a home cooked meal that you will get in Rome.
Trattoria II Bucatino, Armando al Pantheon, & II Sorpasso are great for more rustic staple dishes of Roman cuisine such as trippa alla Romana and coda alla caccinara (oxtail stew). Taste the real pasta “all''Amatriciana” at II Bucatino in Testaccio or try the lively wine/bar restaurant, II Sorpasso situated in the Prati neighborhood. Lastly, one of the city’s most popular trattorias, Armando al Pantheon, located near the Pantheon, offers an historic ambiance with traditional roman cuisine.
Roscioli Salumeria Con Cucina is a charcuterie, cheese, and wine shop near Camp de’ Fiori. It is renowned for having the best Spaghetti all Carbonara in Rome, and for having the highest quality ingredients from Lazio and other Italian regions. There is not a lot of legroom, but it is part of the Roman experience. Try to book ahead for this.
Osteria Da Fortunata is a beloved spot in Campo de' Fiori, renowned for its handmade pasta prepared fresh on-site and served with traditional Roman sauces in a cozy, rustic setting.
Trattoria Dar Cordaro offers a warm atmosphere and specializes in traditional Roman dishes, including expertly cooked meats and classic pastas, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Trattoria Da Teo nestled in the heart of Trastevere, is one of Rome's best and traditional restaurants. Known for their fresh seafood and seasonal dishes like carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style artichokes).
Dino Express is a casual eatery offering quick, affordable, and satisfying Italian meals with a focus on Roman street food and traditional pasta dishes.
Maccheroni is a lively trattoria near Piazza Navona, known for its hearty, traditional Roman pasta dishes served in a vibrant setting with an open kitchen. It is only a short walk from the Trevi Fountain.
Luciano Cucina Italiana is a modern and upscale restaurant in the heart of the city, celebrated for its innovative take on classic Roman dishes, particularly its carbonara, crafted with a refined, contemporary twist. They also have plenty of gluten free pasta options.
Mimi e Coco Trast is located in Trastevere. This bistro serves amazing platters of small bites, bruschetta, olives, and classic drinks right beside one of the most charming alleys. Great for aperitivos and a delightful ambiance.
PIZZERIAS
Pizzeria Emma is the best place for the authentic, uniquely thin and crispy Roman style pizza. It is one of the few restaurants that serves quality pizzas at both lunch and dinnertime.
Seu Pizza Illuminati is a must go to when in Rome. The award-winning pizzaiolo Pier Daniele Seu is considered one of the masters in Italy. Its style of pizza aims to merge the Neapolitan and Roman dough styles. Make sure to order the classic suppli and fried courgetti blossom (fiore di zucca fritto) as a starter.
La Montecarlo, Pizzeria Remo in Testaccio, L’Elementare – Trastevere, and Da Baffetto are honorable mentions for Roman style pizza.
Casa Manco is a good pizzeria for the most delicious pizza with original toppings (grilled peach and lard or courgette blossoms with burrata and anchovies to name a few) in Testaccio Market or in Trastevere.
Bonci Pizzarium is famous for its artisanal, gourmet pizza al taglio, offering a wide variety of creative toppings on thick, airy dough in a casual, grab-and-go setting. If you’re pressed for time, the original shop is by the Vatican but there is also a stand at Mercato Centrale food hall. Their pizza is cooked in giant trays before being cut into squares (“Pizza al taglio”) and sold by weight, in Roman style.
Antico Forno Roscioli in Rome is a historic bakery known for its breads, pizza, and pastries located near Camp de' Fiori. La Renella Forno Antico in Trastevere, another iconic bakery, specializes in rustic, wood-fired bread and Roman-style pizza.
Pastifico Guerra is located by the Spanish steps and has some of the best, cheapest pasta in Rome.
ROMAN STREET FOOD
Trapizzino is home of Rome’s most ingenious street food; the trapizzini. Invented by Callegari in 2008, this is a triangular, thick and hollow wedge of pizza bianca stuffed with savory dishes like chicken cacciatore, meatballs in tomato sauce and burrata with anchovies. They have many Trapizzinos across the city, including one at Mercato Central food hall. You can also find trapizzini on the menu at II Sorpasso near the Vatican City.
I Suppli Trastevere, Supplizio, or I Suppli dei Coronari is where you can find suppli (Roman fried risotta balls). Originally the poor man’s dish created to recycle old risotto rice, suppli involves a ball of rice with tomato sauce and a heart of mozzarella, coated in breadcrumbs and then deep-fried.
All’antico Vinaio is a popular sandwich shop, originally from Florence, offering generous, Tuscan-style schiacciata sandwiches filled with high-quality meats, cheeses, and local ingredients, drawling a long line of locals and tourists. This shop can be found right next to the Pantheon.
Mordi E Vai located in Testaccio Market, is a beloved street food stall known for its mouthwatering sandwiches filled with traditional Roman specialties. Try the amazing “panino allesso”, a sandwich made with boiled meat and cicoria vegetables.
Dar Filettaro is an eatery near Camp de' Fiori, famous for its simple yet delicious baccala fritto, a traditional roman snack consisting of salted cod that is dipped in heavy egg batter, fried, and served hot.
The Mercato Centrale is located in Termini railway station. Here you can find great options and some of Rome’s best restaurants like the Pizzarium, Trapizzino, and Pizza Pier Daniele Seu in a bustling Roman atmosphere.
Mordi E Vai is perfect for tasting the amazing “panino allesso”, a sandwich made with boiled meat and cicoria vegetables.
FINE DINING
Coromandel, Metamorfoi, or II Convivio are great fine dining options. Coromandel offers a charming atmosphere and a menu that combines Italian classic with international influences. Metamorfosi is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its inventive, modern Italian cuisine, where traditional ingredients are reimagined through cutting-edge techniques in an elegant, minimalist setting. II Convivio, another Michelin-starred establishment, blends refined Roman flavors with contemporary culinary artistry.
L’Osteria dell’Orogogio in Fiumicino, is seafood-focused restaurant known for its fresh and local ingredients.
Ineo Restaurant is a gourmet dining restaurant at the iconic Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel. It is hard to book but a perfect spot for a special occasion and is a deeply romantic restaurant. Roman-born chef Heros De Agostinis is at the help after stacking up Michelin stars around the world.
Santo Palato is a trendy trattoria that blends contemporary flair with traditional Roman cuisine, known for its bold, offal-centric dishes.
COFFEE
Faro is one of Rome’s few options for single origin, light roasted specialty coffee.
Sant’Eustachio II Caffe is a great place to order the signature gran caffe and drink it standing at the bar or sitting in the piazza; an experience unique to the most famous coffee roastery that’s been open in Rome since 1938. You can taste or buy bags of their coffee at the newly opened Emporio Sant’Eustachio near the Pantheon.
Roscioli Caffe and Pergamino Caffe are perfect for a coffee break before or after visiting the Vatican Museums.
Ciampini is a classic cafe and Gelateria near Piazza di Spagna, offering excellent coffee, homemade gelato, and a variety of traditional Italian pastries and light bites.
Marigold Roma at The Hoxton, Rome is superb if you are looking for a good coffee and brunch (not typically Roman but still delicious). Marigold Roma is located in Testaccio at The Hoxton, Rome – one of the newest and coolest hotels in Rome - located in Parioli.
PASTICCERIES
Biscottificio Artigiano Innocenti is a beloved, family-run bakery in Trastevere, famous for its freshly baked, handcrafted cookies and Italian sweets.
Pasticceria Boccione in Rome's Jewish Ghetto is a historic bakery known for its rustic, traditional Jewish-Roman pastries, particularly the renowned ricotta and sour cherry cake.
Casa Manfredi is an elegant cafe and pastry shop celebrated for its artisanal croissants, gourmet pastries, and specialty coffee.
Pasticceria Regoli in Rome is famous for its Italian pastries, particularly the maritozzo filled with whipped cream. This shop can be found near Termini station.
II Maritozzaro is renowned for its delectable maritozzo con panna (a sweet, yeasted bun filled with whipped cream). This pasticceria is located near Stazione Trastevere and Porta Portese market.
Pandali is a charming gluten free and allergen-friendly bakery known for its delectable pastries and breads, with a focus on seasonal flavors.
Pompi is famous for its indulgent tiramisu, offering a delightful selection of this classic Italian dessert alongside other delicious pastries in a modern and inviting setting.
L’Antico Forno di Piazza is a beloved neighborhood bakery celebrated for its bread and delicious pizza al taglio, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy authentic Roman flavors backed fresh daily.
GELATO
Giolitti is an iconic Gelateria and pastry shop established in 1900, famous for its rich, creamy gelato and decadent pastries.
Otaleg, Fata Morgana, Gelateria La Romana, and Gelateria die Gracchi are popular for their high-quality gelato made with carefully sourced ingredients and known for their flavorful combinations, featuring seasonal blends that delight both locals and tourists. Both are perfect if you want to be adventurous with flavors (matcha & wasabi, basil & aromatic herbs, ricotta & pears to name a few).
Mancuso is a traditional pastry shop renowned for its exquisite pastries and rich, flavorful cannoli. You must try their delicious Pistachio Cannoli and gelatos.
ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS & BARS WITH A STUNNING VIEW
Oro Bistrot's rooftop bar in Rome offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, serving expertly crafted cocktails and a selection of light bites.
Cecconi’s Terrazza located on the rooftop of the SoHo House Rome, has one the best 36o views of Rome and is great for cocktails.
Aroma offers an unforgettable dining experience with its breathtaking views of the Colosseum and gourmet cuisine in an elegant, open-air setting that perfectly blends history and luxury.
The Court at Palazzo Manfredi is an exclusive rooftop cocktail bar offering up-close views of the Colosseum. Guests can indulge in expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet small plates.
Divinity Rooftop Bar located at the top of the Pantheon Hotel, offers a chic and modern ambiance with stunning panoramic views of the city's historic landmarks.
La Pergola is a renowned three Michelin-star restaurant offering a luxury dining experience, where Italian and Mediterranean cuisine is paired with breaktaking views of the city.
Otto Rooftop is a trendy rooftop bar and restaurant located at the W Hotel and is known for their excellent mixologists and views of the city's skyline.
Giano Restaurant is just a few minutes walk from the Spanish steps and shares a cocktail bar and beautiful garden with the W Hotel Lounge.
Garden Roof Trevi is a sophisticated rooftop lounge offering a serene atmosphere and picturesque views of the city and the Trevi Fountain.
Terazza Borromini is a stunning rooftop bar and restaurant offering panoramic views of Piazza Navona and the city's skyline.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
THE COLOSSEUM
At the Colosseum in Rome, visitors can immerse themselves in ancient history by exploring the vast arena and its underground chambers, where gladiators and animals once awaited their fate. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into the structure's architecture and the thrilling spectacles that took place within its walls. Guests can also enjoy panoramic views from the upper levels and combine their visit to the nearby Roman Forum.
TREVI FOUNTAIN
At the Trevi Fountain, visitors can experience the magic of this Baroque masterpiece by tossing a coin into the water, a tradition believed to ensure a return to Rome. Surrounding the fountain, guests can admire the intricate sculptures and vibrant atmosphere, capturing stunning photos from various angles. The area is also perfect for enjoying gelato from nearby shops or sitting at a cafe to soak in the beauty and lively ambiance of one of Rome's most iconic landmarks.
ROMAN FORUM
At the Roman Forum, visitors can wander through the ruins of what was once the heart of ancient Rome, exploring the remains of temples, basilicas, and public spaces that played a vital role in Roman civic life. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of each site, including the Senate House and the Temple of Saturn. Guests can enjoy picturesque views of the Colosseum and Palatine Hill while immersing themselves in the rich heritage of this archaeological treasure, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
SPANISH STEPS
At the Spanish Steps, visitors can climb the iconic 135-step staircase that connects the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinita dei Monti church, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding area along the way. The steps are a popular gathering spot, perfect for people-watching or relaxing on the steps while taking in the vibrant atmosphere. Guests can explore the nearby shopping streets, indulge in gelato from local vendors, and capture stunning photographs of the picturesque setting, making it a must-see destination in Rome.
CASTEL SANT'ANGELO
At Castel Sant'Angelo, visitors can explore the historic fortress originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, which later served various purposes, including a papal residence and a military stronghold. Guests can stroll through the castle's museum, which showcases fascinating artifacts and artworks, and climb to the rooftop terrace for breathtaking panoramic views of the Tiber River and the Vatican. The surrounding area also offers picturesque walks along the river, making it a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the scenic beauty of Rome.
VATICAN CITY
In Vatican City, visitors can explore the breathtaking St. Peter's Basilica, known for its magnificent dome and stunning artwork, including Michelangelo's Pieta. The Vatican Museums offer a rich collection of art and historical treasures, culminating in the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel, famous for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo. Guests can also stroll through the Vatican Gardens, enjoy guided tours to learn about the rich history and significance of this independent city-state, and attend a papal audience for a unique spiritual experience.
PANTHEON
At the Pantheon, visitors can marvel at the remarkable architecture of this ancient Roman temple, renowned for its massive dome and oculus that illuminates the interior with natural light. Guests can explore the well-preserved structure, which now serves as a church, and admire the beautiful chapels and tombs of notable figures, including the painter Raphael. The surrounding Piazza della Rotunda offers a charming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a coffee or gelato while taking in the grandeur of one of Rome's most iconic monuments.
PIAZZA NAVONA
At Piazza Navona, visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of one of Rome's most famous squares, adorned with stunning Baroque fountains, including Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers. Guests can relax at outdoor cafes, savoring authentic Italian cuisine and gelato while enjoying street performances and local artists showcasing their talents. The surrounding architecture, including the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone, adds to the square's charm, making it the perfect spot for leisurely strolls and people-watching in the heart of the city.
GALLERIA BORGHESE
At the Galleria Borghese, visitors can admire an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, featuring masterpieces by artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Guests can explore the elegantly decorated rooms of the villa, each showcasing exquisite sculptures and paintings in a tranquil setting surrounded by the beautiful Borghese Gardens. Guided tours are available to enhance the experience, offering insights into the artworks and the history of the collection, making it a highlight for art enthusiasts and a serene escape in the heart of Rome.
TRASTEVERE
In Trastevere, visitors can wander through charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the historic neighborhood. The area is known for its authentic Roman cuisine, making it a great place to dine at local trattorias and enjoy traditional dishes. Guests can explore stunning landmarks like the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, relax in the beautiful Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden), and experience the lively nightlife at bars and pubs, creating a perfect blend of culture, history, and entertainment in one of Rome's most picturesque districts.