Introduction
Rome isn’t just a feast for the eyes with its ancient ruins and breathtaking architecture; it’s a feast for the stomach, a culinary journey through centuries of tradition and flavors. Food in Rome is more than sustenance; it’s a celebration of family, a connection to the land, and a vibrant expression of Roman culture. From the simplest pasta dishes to the most indulgent desserts, Rome offers a culinary experience unlike any other. This guide will lead you through the must-try dishes of the Eternal City, unveiling both classic staples and hidden gastronomic gems, and pointing you to the best places to savor them. So, come with us and discover the best foods in Rome.
Classic Roman Pasta Dishes
No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in its world-renowned pasta. Simple ingredients, expertly prepared, transform into culinary masterpieces that define Roman cuisine.
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe, literally “cheese and pepper,” is a testament to the power of simplicity. This dish consists of just four ingredients: pasta (typically spaghetti or tonnarelli), pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water. The magic lies in the execution. The pecorino romano, a salty sheep’s milk cheese, is grated finely and mixed with freshly ground black pepper. The starchy pasta water helps emulsify the cheese and pepper into a creamy, luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of pasta. The quality of ingredients is paramount; using high-quality pecorino and freshly cracked pepper is essential for an authentic and unforgettable experience. Many consider this to be one of the best foods in Rome.
For a truly exceptional Cacio e Pepe, head to Roma Sparita in Trastevere. While the restaurant is known for its Cacio e Pepe served in a crispy parmesan basket, the traditional version is equally divine. Another excellent option is Da Felice a Testaccio, a classic Roman trattoria that takes pride in its traditional recipes. Flavio al Velavevodetto, located inside the Testaccio market, is also a great choice, known for its authentic Roman dishes and lively atmosphere.
Carbonara
Carbonara is another Roman staple, often misunderstood and misrepresented outside of Italy. Authentic Carbonara is made with guanciale (cured pork cheek), egg yolks, pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. Cream is a definite no-no! The richness of the egg yolks combined with the savory guanciale creates a sauce that is both decadent and satisfying. The pecorino romano adds a salty, sharp bite that complements the other flavors perfectly. The key to a great Carbonara is to cook the guanciale until crispy but not burnt, and to use the heat of the pasta to gently cook the egg yolks, creating a creamy sauce without scrambling them.
For a truly authentic Carbonara experience, visit Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina. This deli and restaurant uses top-quality ingredients and prepares its Carbonara with meticulous care. Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto, located outside the city center, is another excellent choice, known for its traditional Roman dishes and relaxed atmosphere. Armando al Pantheon, near the Pantheon, is a classic restaurant with consistently delicious Carbonara.
Amatriciana
Amatriciana takes its name from the town of Amatrice, and it’s a hearty, flavorful pasta dish that is deeply rooted in Roman culinary tradition. The key ingredients are guanciale, tomatoes (typically San Marzano), pecorino romano cheese, and onion (though some recipes omit the onion). The guanciale is cooked until crispy, rendering its flavorful fat, which forms the base of the sauce. The tomatoes add sweetness and acidity, while the pecorino romano provides a salty, sharp counterpoint. The combination of flavors is both rich and satisfying.
To savor an excellent Amatriciana, try Lo Scopettaro, a Roman trattoria known for its traditional dishes and generous portions. Osteria Da Enzo al 29 in Trastevere is another fantastic option, offering a cozy atmosphere and authentic Roman cuisine. Sora Lella, located on the Tiber Island, is a historic restaurant with a reputation for serving classic Roman dishes with a modern twist.
Gricia
Gricia is often considered the precursor to Amatriciana, as it shares the same fundamental ingredients except for the tomatoes. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of guanciale, pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. The focus is entirely on the quality of the ingredients and the perfect execution of the technique. The crispy guanciale provides a savory richness, while the pecorino romano adds a salty, sharp bite. The black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity. Gricia is a celebration of simplicity and demonstrates the beauty of Roman cuisine.
For a taste of authentic Gricia, visit Da Danilo, a restaurant that prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. SantoPalato, known for its nose-to-tail dining, also offers an exceptional Gricia. Retrobottega, a modern Roman restaurant, offers a contemporary take on Gricia, using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques.
Beyond Pasta: Other Roman Delights
While pasta is undoubtedly a cornerstone of Roman cuisine, there’s much more to discover beyond the classic pasta dishes.
Pizza al Taglio
Pizza al Taglio, meaning “pizza by the slice,” is a Roman-style pizza that is baked in large rectangular trays and sold by weight. The crust is typically thick and crispy, with a light and airy texture. The toppings are varied and creative, ranging from classic tomato and mozzarella to more adventurous combinations like zucchini flowers and anchovies. Pizza al Taglio is a perfect street food snack or a casual lunch option. It’s considered one of the best foods in Rome for a quick bite.
For some of the best Pizza al Taglio in Rome, head to Bonci Pizzarium. Gabriele Bonci is a renowned pizzaiolo who is known for his creative toppings and commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Forno Campo de’ Fiori is another excellent option, a historic bakery that offers a wide variety of Pizza al Taglio. Antico Forno Roscioli is a family-run bakery that has been serving delicious pizza and bread for generations.
Suppli
Suppli are fried rice balls filled with mozzarella cheese, often with tomato sauce. They are a popular street food snack in Rome and are typically found in pizzerias and rosticcerias. The rice is cooked with tomato sauce and then mixed with mozzarella cheese. The mixture is then formed into small balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. When you bite into a suppli, the mozzarella cheese melts and stretches, creating a delicious and satisfying experience.
To find the best suppli, visit Supplizio, a restaurant dedicated to serving high-quality suppli with various fillings. Ai Marmi, a pizzeria in Trastevere, is also known for its delicious suppli. Trapizzino, while known for its trapizzini, also offers excellent suppli.
Carciofi alla Romana / alla Giudia
Artichokes are a beloved vegetable in Rome, and they are prepared in two distinct styles: Carciofi alla Romana (Roman-style artichokes) and Carciofi alla Giudia (Jewish-style artichokes). Carciofi alla Romana are braised artichokes that are stuffed with garlic, mint, and parsley and cooked in a broth of white wine and olive oil. Carciofi alla Giudia are deep-fried artichokes that are cooked until crispy and golden brown. Both styles are delicious and offer a unique taste of Roman cuisine. Artichokes are in season during the winter and spring, making them a seasonal delicacy.
For Carciofi alla Romana, try La Tavernaccia Da Bruno, a restaurant known for its traditional Roman cuisine and cozy atmosphere. For Carciofi alla Giudia, head to the Jewish Ghetto and visit Nonna Betta, a restaurant specializing in Jewish-Roman cuisine. Piperno, another restaurant in the Jewish Ghetto, is also renowned for its Carciofi alla Giudia.
Porchetta
Porchetta is a slow-roasted pork dish that is often served in sandwiches. The pork is typically seasoned with herbs and spices, such as rosemary, garlic, and fennel, and then roasted for several hours until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. Porchetta is a popular street food option in Rome and is often found at markets and festivals.
To find the best porchetta, visit Er Panino, a sandwich shop that specializes in porchetta sandwiches. Volpetti Più is another excellent option, a deli that offers high-quality porchetta by the slice. Many local markets also offer fantastic porchetta.
Sweet Treats of Rome
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Rome offers a variety of delicious desserts that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Gelato
Gelato is the Italian version of ice cream, but it’s made with more milk and less cream than traditional ice cream, resulting in a denser and more flavorful product. Real gelato is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and is often flavored with fruits, nuts, or chocolate. Rome is home to many gelaterias, offering a wide variety of flavors and regional specialties. When searching for the best foods in Rome, Gelato should be on your list.
For some of the best gelato in Rome, visit Giolitti, a historic gelateria that has been serving delicious gelato since . Fatamorgana is another excellent option, known for its innovative and creative flavors. Come il Latte is a gelateria that uses high-quality ingredients and prepares its gelato fresh daily.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert made with ladyfingers dipped in coffee, layered with mascarpone cheese, and dusted with cocoa powder. It’s a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for ending a meal. Every restaurant offers Tiramisu, so it will be hard to miss out on this delicious treat.
A very popular Tiramisu can be found at Two Sizes, which specializes in the dessert. A lot of restaurants such as Flavio al Velavevodetto will also have delicious options for you.
Maritozzo con Panna
Maritozzo con panna is a sweet bun filled with whipped cream. It’s a traditional Roman pastry that is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. The bun is typically soft and slightly sweet, while the whipped cream is light and airy. Maritozzo con panna has a long history in Rome and was once given to engaged women by their future husbands.
To find the best maritozzo, visit Regoli Pasticceria, a historic pastry shop that has been serving delicious pastries since . Pasticceria De Bellis is another excellent option, known for its high-quality ingredients and artisanal pastries. Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria is another highly recommended spot.
Where to Eat: Neighborhood Recommendations
Rome is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and culinary offerings. Here are some of the best neighborhoods for foodies:
Trastevere
Trastevere is a charming neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for tourists, but it also offers some excellent restaurants that serve traditional Roman cuisine.
Testaccio
Testaccio is a more local neighborhood that is known for its traditional Roman cuisine and its bustling market. It’s a great place to experience authentic Roman food and culture.
Monti
Monti is a trendy neighborhood with a mix of traditional and modern restaurants. It’s a great place to find innovative cuisine and stylish dining experiences.
Jewish Ghetto
The Jewish Ghetto is a historic neighborhood that is known for its unique culinary traditions. It’s a great place to try Carciofi alla Giudia and other Jewish-Roman specialties.
Tips for Eating Like a Local
To truly experience the best foods in Rome, it’s important to eat like a local. Here are some tips:
Make reservations, especially for popular restaurants and on weekends.
Tipping is not mandatory in Rome, but it’s customary to leave a small tip if you are satisfied with the service.
Understand the different types of eateries. Trattorias are typically family-run restaurants that serve traditional Roman cuisine. Ristorantes are more formal restaurants that offer a wider variety of dishes. Pizzerias specialize in pizza.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases related to food, such as “Buon appetito” (Enjoy your meal) and “Il conto, per favore” (The bill, please).
Try the local wines. Rome is surrounded by vineyards, and the local wines are a perfect complement to Roman cuisine.
Conclusion
Rome is a culinary paradise that offers a wide variety of delicious dishes and dining experiences. From the classic pasta dishes to the indulgent desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, come to Rome with an empty stomach and a sense of adventure, and prepare to be amazed by the best foods in Rome. Remember to explore the different neighborhoods, try the local specialties, and eat like a local. Eating in Rome is not just about food; it’s about experiencing the city’s history, culture, and passion, all on a plate.
