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As the saying goes, “In Rome, do as the Romans do”, and this is especially true when it comes to food. The city is full of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine, offering a culinary experience to suit all tastes. However, for a true immersion in Roman gastronomic culture, nothing beats the establishments frequented by the locals. Not only will you find delicious food, but you’ll also get a glimpse of local life.
From traditional trattorias to more modern eateries, the Eternal City has something for everyone. But where do the Romans themselves choose to eat? To discover the authentic flavours of Rome and taste typical dishes in the company of the locals, here is a list of the city’s best restaurants.
Antico Arco
A white linen restaurant serving a range of Italian delicacies and a stellar wine cellar, this is a must visit restaurant in Rome. Menu favourites are the Italian classics: scallops with roasted red pepper and a delicious basil-tomato sauce, and risotto. However, the shining star is the spaghetti carbonara, which is the signature dish of this restaurant.
People rave that the flavours of all the dishes are absolutely amazing, refreshing and irresistible. They do accommodate both vegetarian and gluten-free guests. It’s best to make a reservation as Antico Arco is often full.
Piazzale Aurelio, 7, 00152 Roma
Mama Eat
Mama Eat is a restaurant boasting its unique menu that comprises traditional cuisine along with classic gluten-free dishes. Many people are surprised that Italian are so aware of celiac disease as there is a rumour in North America that it doesn’t exist in Italy. Sadly it does. But it means that those with celiac should have no problem in Italy. The most popular dishes at Mama Eat are the pastas, which you would not know are gluten-free. And pizza in Italy is on another level with such great cheese. For dessert the classico tiramisu and the pistachio delight are huge hits.
Via di S. Cosimato, 7/9, 00153 Roma
Grazia & Graziella
One of the more lively settings in Rome with plenty of local spirit. Grazia & Graziella feels like you’re at someone’s home, which serves authentic Italian dishes right from Mama’s kitchen.
Popular items are the gluten-free pasta, gnocchi, or iconic cacio e pepe along with thin crust pizzas.
L.go M.D. Fumasoni Biondi 5, 00153 Roma
Cajo & Gajo
A casual neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Trastevere it’s a very low key vibe, which is what you want in hectic Rome. While it’s known for its pasta the lasagne really shines as one of the best dishes.
This isn’t a fine dining restaurant but if you’re looking for where locals go, you’ll find them here.
Cajo & Gajo
Piazza San Calisto 10, 00153, Roma
Forno da Milvio
This is a great spot if you’re in the heart of the tourist centre. It can be easy to get caught in pricey tourist traps and ordering mediocre Italian food.
Forno da Milvio is surprisingly delicious as it’s located near the Colosseum. It’s the perfect stop after wandering the streets for delicious croquettes, scrumptious panini sandwiches and cheesy pasta.
Here staff understand and speak English and are known for great service. It’s also a fantastic spot to order pizza by weight, i.e. you can order a kg if you are in a large group or 250 grams, if you are eating alone here.
Via Dei Serpenti 700184 Rome
Il Margutta
After strolling the artist dotted Via Margutta continue the artistic inspiration with food. For a completely different experience visit Il Margutta, which is known for its vegetarian, vegan and raw food menu. After a few days of heavy pastas, braised meats and risottos this is often what travellers are looking for.
Although brunch is a relatively new concept in Italy, Il Margutta has quickly developed a reputation as it is an Italian-style buffet with over 40 items. This is among the best restaurants in Rome serving Mediterranean and European cuisine along with traditional Italian food.
Via Margutta 118, 00187 Roma
Baguetteria del Fico
This is a restaurant loved by the tourists for its heavenly flavours, free wi-fi, and flexible payment options.
But Baguetteria del Fico is most well known for its bar. It serves more than 150 types of beer! Alongside it there are simple meat and cheese snacks and sandwiches made to order. It’s perfect for those days that only a sandwich will do, and Italian sandwiches never disappoint.
Via Della Fossa 12 00197 Rome
Trattoria da Aldo
Right at the foot of the Vatican wall is Trattoria Da Aldo, an unassuming and non-touristy typical trattoria with red and white chequered tablecloths and an old-school charm. The food here is simple, fresh and traditional and the portions are generous so buon apetito!
Ristorante Edoardo
Edoardo is a family-run restaurant that’s been serving a very satisfied clientele since 1974. Take a seat in the front patio or inside and let the knowledgeable staff take care of you. The restaurant serves the best the land has to offer and features Roman specialties such as pasta cacio et pepe, all’amatriciana and more.
Spirito Di Vino
In the heart of Rome’s Trastevere neighbourhood, lies a restaurant with an attention to detail like no other: organic produce bought fresh from the market daily or from producers that are certified Slow Food. Everything is made in house, from the pasta to the jams and tomato sauce. That, in addition to the cellar’s 800 bottles of wine is a guarantee for a spectacular meal!
