Next to smell, your sense of taste is one of the strongest sensory attachments to memory. That’s why people get nostalgic of their grandmas when they smell a particularly fragrant home-cooked meal. The best restaurants in Rome know this and tell a story through their dishes.
From the aroma of Nonna’s tomato (pomodoro) sauce to the comforting simplicity of a classic Roman pizza, every flavor tells a story. In a city bursting with dining options, it’s easy to settle for the first appealing choice, but remember: Eating isn’t just a necessity; it’s about making memories.
So, forget the rush and let us show you the best dining experiences in Rome, where you’ll discover culinary gems in Rome that’ll have you singing “That’s Amore.”
TL;DR
Exploring Rome and all is cultural and historic landmarks is hungry work. Thankfully, the Eternal City just happens to be one of the culinary centers of the world. Check out our guide to Rome’s best restaurants: from the hottest pizza joints, to the hidden spots locals covet, to luxurious Michelin-starred experiences. Dig in!
My Three Top Restaurants in Rome
La Pergola
Located in: Balduina | Best for: Michelin dining
La Pergola is genuine Italian luxury. This is where you pair fine dining with a view of Rome’s expansive skyline, including the Colosseum and some of the city’s most beloved villas. With Chef Heinz Beck at the helm and 3 Michelin stars, the food here is a pure delight and is often named one of the best Michelin restaurants in Rome.
Although you might not be able to view their menu ahead of time (it changes with seasonality and available ingredients), you might expect delicate, edible flowers in the spring and fresh caviar in the winter.
For the intrepid travelers who like a bit of the unexpected, you know that every visit is going to be unique.
Pro tip: You’ll find this spot perched on the ninth floor of the Cavalieri (a Waldorf Astoria Hotel). Make a window reservation (at least one month in advance) for stunning panoramic view of Rome.
Altro Pasta & Vino Consegna a Domicilio
Located in: Testaccio | Best for: Quick snacks
This fun and lively bar is your spot for no-frills pasta served on paper plates. It’s spot at the corner makes for a two-sided window with bar stools for seating, though most people eat standing up.
It’s great for a quick snack between meals or lunch if you’re going on the cheap-and-fast route. I loved the truffle ravioli, but their carbonara is an instant classic.
Seu Pizza Illuminati
Located in: Monteverde | Best for: Pizza
Who could resist trying the absolute best pizza in Rome? Seu Pizza Illuminati is among the top 50 pizza restaurants in the world, and it truly doesn’t disappoint.
A bit away from the touristy area of Rome, you’ll find this cool and minimalist space that doesn’t look like your typical old-school pizzeria. Classic or creative, each pizza bursts with flavor. Neapolitan-style dough and locally sourced toppings ensure an unforgettable taste.
75+ Restaurant recommendations in Rome
Tried, tested, and loved by our editors
Wish you had a local to share the best restaurant recommendations for Rome? Consider your wish granted. Here’s 75+ restaurants, including Michelin rated dining and local favorites in the hidden neighborhoods.
Best Restaurants in Rome for Italian Cuisine
World class cities always have a melting pot of restaurants. Rome is no different; you’ll find ramen shops, sushi, and kebabs, but you can’t forget about Italian cuisine, especially because it was just recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage!
Capital cities tend to represent their county dishes quite well, but Roman fare is also quite different from the rest of Italy (more on that below) and a delight to try on its own.
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Ristorante da Salvo Roma
Located in: Portuense
Find this little gem among many gems, for the Portuense neighborhood of Rome is full of non-touristy trattorias and bakeries that locals love.
Da Salvo is one of those places. It’s a small shop with limited wooden seating and the walls are decorated with pictures of the chef and the occasional Italian celebrity.
Come here for the Roman-style pizza, a thin crust pie served fresh from the woodfire oven with a bit of char.
Fiori di Zucca
Located in: Portuense
Also in Portuense, the 11th quartiere of Rome along the Tiber River, is Fiori di Zucca, which literally translates to ‘Squash flower.’
If you’re acquainted with Southern Italian cooking, you know a stuffed squash blossom (flower) usually finds its way onto a table.
This place has lovely, wood-fired pizza Napolitano-style with a fluffy, chewy crust. You’ll also find stuffed squash blossoms on the menu.
Casale Acquasanta Ristorante
Located in: Appio-Pingatelle
If you wanted to take a day trip to the Southern Italian countryside, but couldn’t find the time for such an excursion, Casale Acquasanta Ristorante will give you that experience while staying in the city.
This restaurant is settled alongside a park (and isn’t too far away from the Park of the Aqueducts), so the outdoor terrace faces a grassy, untouched field full of trees.
The dining here is al fresco, meaning you’ll be seated outside on the desk or amongst the trees. I’d suggest planning your visit here on a sunny day.
Trattoria Pennestri
Located in: Testaccio
This cozy trattoria might surprise you, as it’s located a few short walks away from a busy train station. While commuters and travelers often walk right by this spot, the locals of the Testaccio neighborhood enjoy their hidden gem trattoria in private.
What immediately drew me into Trattoria Pennestri (meaning people from the Penne region of Italy) was the warm candle light inside as I walked on the opposite side of the street.
The ambiance of this place feels thoughtful and inviting, and later, I learned that they’ve been noticed by the Michelin guide and focus on low-waste cooking.
Ad Hoc Ristorante
Located in: Ripa
If you’re seeking a casual yet refined dining atmosphere, Ad Hoc is one of the top restaurants in Rome that fits the bill. Set in a cozy cellar-like atmosphere with friendly service, it’s ideal for a romantic night out.
Their menu, with its twist on traditional Italian dishes, offers delights like black truffles and irresistible beef and lamb choices. Plus, the staff goes the extra mile, matching your wine perfectly with your meal, for a truly personalized touch.
Read next: Our 10 Favorite Food Walking Tours in Rome
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Felice a Testaccio
Located in: Testaccio
Here’s another one for your ‘great restaurants in Rome’ list. The dishes at Felice a Testaccio feel like a warm hug from an Italian Nonna (grandmother), each bite crafted with love and tradition. It’s where you’ll find the best cacio e pepe in Rome, a typical Roman dish of pasta in a cheese and black pepper sauce.
Aside from this option, there are a variety of other expertly prepared pastas. Their tiramisu is so divine that you’ll question every other tiramisu you’ve ever tasted. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve savored the last heavenly bite. Truly some of the best dining in Rome.
Da Enzo al 29
Located in: Trastevere
Forget about the posh places in Rome – let me tell you about this cozy joint that’s all about embracing Italian tradition. Da Enzo al 29 is located in the heart of Trastevere and offers quality Italian fare, including 5-star burrata, great meatballs (polpette), and a spectacular carbonara.
Of course, don’t forget to save room for their irresistible pistachio gelato. With its charming outdoor seating and welcoming staff, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the hidden gems of Rome.
Where to Eat in Rome Like a Local
When you’re decided where to eat in Rome, you must explore Roman cuisine. This region is different than other parts of Italy and comes with its unique styles of cooking and ingredients.
A few essential dishes born from the Eternal City include cacio e pepe, which is long pasta served in a creamy sauce of cracked black pepper and cheese, and carbonara.
A must-try is also fiori di zuccho, tender squash blossoms battered and fried into an almost custard-like consistency.
Read next: 19 Spots for Roman Art in Rome: The Best Self-Guided Art Tour
Le Tre Zucche la bottega
Located in: Portuense
There are four classic pasta dishes in Rome: Cacio e Pepe, Gricia, Carbonara, and Amatriciana. Le Tre Zucche la bottega is one of the few places that truly does all of them well.
Think about it: When a place goes viral on Instagram, it’s usually because of that one signature dish. Maybe it’s the Cacio e Pepe, while another place down the street specializes in Carbonara.
When I came to Le Tre Zucche la bottega I sampled each one and would recommend this spot for friends or travelers with kids who can come here to split all four.
Vent8posti
Located in: Portuense
Vent8posti di Alessandro Onori has some of the most authentic Roman and seafood dishes this side of the city.
Alessandro Onori, the owner of the place, clearly has a pension for great food served in a down-to-earth setting. Try marinated artichokes (a Roman favorite) or crispy cod. They also have an ‘off-menu’ menu with items that change every week. Check their website and ask for it by name!
Osteria Dell’Olmo
Located in: Frascati
The seating inside fills up quickly, but the outdoor terrace is simply magical on those hot summer nights. Osteria Dell’Olmo sets foldable tables on the cobblestone street where you’re surrounded by historic buildings and no cars.
Meals start with an assortment of fishes to share among the table and end with scarpetta, the post-meal ritual when you mop up all the leftover sauce on your plate with bread. Don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of crispy, fresh bread to start.
Supplizio
Located in: Centro Storico
A popular Roman street food is Supplì, fried risotto balls stuffed with cheese and then fried. The result is a crispy ball with soft risotto in the second layer, and gushy hot cheese in the middle.
It fits right in the hand, making it a great snack to grab on the go. You’ll find plenty of Supplì shops around Centro Storico, but I personally love Supplizio.
The interior is very casual—which speaks to the authenticity of this favored street food. You’ll find scribbled words on the wall (yes, you’re welcome to leave your name there too) and a handful of seats that fill up fast in the evening.
Osteria Fratelli Mori
Located in: Testaccio
Take a seat in this cozy spot and enjoy genuine Roman flavors in a laid-back atmosphere. From classic Roman dishes to popular favorites, there’s a dish for every craving.
Don’t miss out on their top pasta picks: fettuccine with artichokes and bacon, Amatriciana, a tomato sauce with pan-fried pancetta, or spaghetti with butter and anchovies.
Matricianella
Located in: Colonna
If you’re seeking genuine flavors that still thrive in the heart of Rome without the overwhelming presence of tourists, Matricianella truly offers one of the best dining experiences in Rome. Dating back to 1957, this historic establishment offers a comfortably elegant atmosphere, with tables delicately set to enhance your dining experience.
Here, you’ll discover the absolute best bucatini all’amatriciana and Pasta with black truffles, serving as a testament to the timeless appeal of Roman cuisine.
Read next: The Dos and Don’ts of Dining Etiquette in Italy
Contro Corrente
Located in: Fiumicino (near the airport)
Contro Corrente is the perfect excuse for a quick escape before heading to the airport. Located just 10 minutes from Fiumicino, it requires a bit of a pilgrimage to reach this Michelin-rated spot, but totally under the radar of most tourists.
Unlike the usual seafood offerings in Fiumicino, they specialize in delectable meats and pastas in what I would say is some of the best dining in Rome.
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L’angoletto di Fiumicino
Located in: Fiumicino (near the airport)
Still not sure where to eat in Rome? Well, on your next getaway to Fiumicino, don’t miss the chance to experience L’Angoletto di Fiumicino, a seafood haven with a special touch: They’re dedicated to serving only locally-sourced fish.
Be prepared for a culinary adventure, as their menu, though concise, reflects the freshest catch of the day, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience.
Best Restaurants in Rome for Pizza: 180grammi
Located in: Centocelle
One of the hottest pizza spots around, 180grammi is hailed among the top 50 pizzas and celery pizza in 2023. Trust me, it’s worth the trip! Their Roman-style pizza is thin and crispy, topped with a tantalizing mix of classic and inventive flavors.
Their mission is to blend tradition with innovation, and so 180grammi is redefining the Roman pizza experience, one slice at a time.
75+ Restaurant recommendations in Rome
Tried, tested, and loved by our editors
Wish you had a local to share the best restaurant recommendations for Rome? Consider your wish granted. Here’s 75+ restaurants, including Michelin rated dining and local favorites in the hidden neighborhoods.
Great Restaurants in Rome for Old-School Vibes
The essence of Old World Italy is often captured in pop culture and entertainment. The red and white checkered table cloth. The table wine that’s sometimes even better than a bottle with a $100 price tag.
Top off your culinary experience with the best restaurants in Rome for the essential old-school vibes.
Ristorante la Campana
Located in: Centro Storico
Take a trip back in time at Rome’s oldest restaurant, which has been open since the 16th century. This spot serves up an authentic old-world Rome dining experience that transports you back in time, just like the ancient Romans.
Try out unique dishes like hunchback Parmesan, artichoke alla giudia and classic Carciofo alla romana.
Trattoria Vecchia Roma
Located in: Monti
Transport yourself back to 1916, when this humble cellar was the heart of Roman leisure. Today, it’s a beloved trattoria cherished for its timeless Roman fare. Don’t miss their standout dish: bucatini all’amatriciana flambé, cooked in a pecorino cheese wheel. It’s an absolute gem of Rome.
Pro tip: Trattoria Vecchia has one of the best gluten-free pasta dishes that I’ve ever tasted!
Il Grottino
Located in: Testaccio
Since 1936, Il Grottino in Testaccio has been a cozy retreat, bringing out memories of family gatherings and childhood flavors. Don’t miss their signature mushrooms and sausage or the Grottino pizza served “alla Bismark” – with a fried egg on top. Trust me, it’s a slice of Rome you won’t find anywhere else.
Checchino dal 1887
Located in: Testaccio
Checchino Dal 1887, where the aroma of homemade food fills the air. With over a century of history, it’s like visiting your grandparents’ place, complete with rustic wooden walls. This is likely one of the most authentic Roman restaurants still alive and serving in the capital city. Yet another great Rome restaurant option when you’re passing through the Testaccio neighborhood.
Run by a family of six generations, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome and standout dishes like Rigatoni with Pajata (small intestine) and Coda Alla Vaccinara, Roman oxtail stew.
Read Next: The 8 Best Beaches Near Rome (Accessible By Train And Car)
Trastevere Treats: Spirito di Vino
Located in: Trastevere
In Trastevere’s historic streets stands this winery, a relic from Julius Caesar’s era. Run by Francesco and his family, Spirito di Vino is a taste of home away from home.
On the wine list, a combination of domestic vintages, including some fine organic Italian wine from Sicily, and a nice variety of international bottles as well.
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International Cuisine and Fusion
All this Italian cuisine could become too much of a good thing. If you’re ready to see what else Rome has to offer, there is also an excellent International scene with culinary prowess to back it up. Here are a few of our favorite spots for something a little less Italian.
Alma Criolla
Located in: Quadraro
The first time I went to Peru, I was blown away by the food (and even more so by the fusions!) I was thrilled to come to Rome and find I could get my fix of Peruvian flavors here as well.
To start, Alma Criolla has ceviche that tasted close to authentic, complete with spicy peppers and a squidge of lime. Then they brought out the pisco and Andean beer!
LaViet – Marconi
Located in: Portuense
Have a pho craving? Come to LaViet, Portuenese’s premiere Vietnamese joint. As is so often the case in Vietnamese spots, the atmosphere is laid back but the waitstaff are friendly.
The beef pho was a hit, but you should also give the fresh spring rolls a try.
Moè Sushi – Portuense
Located in: Portuense
You’ll find Moè Sushi in the same neighborhood as Portuense. This sushi spot is visually stunning as it is delicious. As you walk through the front doors, you immediately notice all the green vines reaching from where they grow in the ceiling.
The green leather chairs and wooden floor appear to be a continuation of this natural space, and you might instead feel like you’ve walked into a garden rather than a restaurant.
The sushi rolls on the menu are imaginative and fresh, often using fish locally sourced or from the Mediterranean.
Otosan
Located in: Trieste
This Japanese restaurant feels more authentic to the East Asian aesthetic, with wooden fixtures, warm lighting, and tatami-style tables, where you take your shoes off and sit on an elevated platform rather than in a chair.
Restaurant goers will love this spot for exactly that reason—it feels like you’ve stepped into another country while remaining in Rome.
The menu goes beyond typical sushi, and includes local favorites that you’d find on the streets of Osaka, Japan’s foodie city. Expect okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made from shredded cabbage and doused with sauce, as well as piping hot bowls of ramen.
Miglio Food&Drink
Located in: Appio-Pignatelle
Will nothing else satisfy your craving besides a good ol’ American burger? I’ve been there before. I came across Miglio when I was walking around the Appio-Pignatelle neighborhood, close to the aqueducts and a few other hidden gems in Rome.
This place is definitely more on the local side (bring a translation app on your phone and don’t expect English speaking waiters). However, I think it’s worth a visit. I was delighted with how juicy and satisfying their burgers were.
Morbido
Located in: Cinecitta
You’ll come across Morbido (Italian for ‘soft’) in the Cinecitta part of town. Further away from the crowds, this neighborhood isn’t quite as frequented as other parts of the city, but some travelers are lucky to come across this spot when they come down here to visit the Park of the Aqueducts.
Although it’s in Rome and specializes in general Italian fare, I’d say Morbido also nods to Tuscan cuisine. Many of the dishes on the menu, such as steak and beef tartare, are classic Tuscan dishes and are often on the menu in Florence.
FAQs About Eating in Rome
What does scarpetta mean?
In Italian, scarpetta describes using bread to scoop up the remaining sauce off of your plate after the meal. One of the classic Italian culture tidbits, this bread should be saved for after the meal. As they say: When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
Do people tip in Rome?
Tipping isn’t mandatory in Rome, but a small tip for great service is appreciated (around 5% of the bill). Prices typically range from €5-13 for pizzas, €10-12 for pasta, €14-25 for mains, and around €5 for desserts.
What time do restaurants close in Rome?
Times vary, but most Italian restaurants close between 1-4pm. Locals typically eat lunch between 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. and have dinner between 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. While Rome is a major tourist hub and some restaurants may stay open longer, this rule is especially true in smaller cities. If you plan a day trip to Orvieto, or another village, be sure to arrive early for the lunch hour.
How many Michelin-star restaurants are there in Rome?
As per the 2025 Michelin Guide, there are 23 Michelin-starred restaurants within Rome province, making the capital one of the top culinary destinations in Italy. The best restaurants in Rome include one with three stars (La Pergola), three with two stars, and 19 with one star.
What is ‘coperto’ in Italy?
Coperto is a standardized fee attached to the final bill in some restaurants in Italy. Coperto usually ranges from one to three euros and covers things like bread, linen and table settings. This is not an optional fee.
Are restaurants open on Sundays?
Yes, most restaurants in Rome stay open on Sundays, but do often close every afternoon between 1-4pm. This is standard in most restaurants across Italy.
What are the three types of restaurants in Italy?
There are three types of restaurants (ristorante, trattoria and osteria) in Italy, and each is unique. Osteria is considered casual dining, trattoria is slightly more formal than an osteria but features typical and regional cuisines. A ristorante is the most formal of the three.
How do I avoid tourist trap restaurants in Rome?
The best way to avoid tourist trap restaurants in Rome is to skip the spots that have gone viral on social media. Also avoid any place within an unreasonably long line. The best places to eat in Rome are often underrated and slightly outside of the major tourist areas like Centro Storico.
Is it rude to ask for tap water in Italy?
No, it’s not rude to ask for tap water, but the restaurant may not offer it. Most restaurants have either still or sparkling water on the menu and could have a policy against offering tap to patrons.
