The 38 Must-Try Restaurants in Rome

The quality of pastries and coffee near the Vatican Museums has a poor reputation. That was until Love Specialty Croissants opened just a few blocks north of the busiest area. Their pastry selection features both French and Italian-style laminated treats, savory and sweet, while the coffee is sourced from single-origin beans selected and roasted by Rome's Aliena Coffee Roasters. A highlight is the Moon Love, a flaky crescent pastry filled with coffee cream, topped with coffee crumble and even more cream.

Colombian chef Roy Caceres, a seasoned figure in Roman fine dining, once helmed the Michelin-starred restaurant Metamorfosi, which didn’t survive the pandemic. However, his signature dishes have found a new home at Orma (an anagram of Roma), located just a few blocks southeast of the Galleria Borghese. Orma features a variety of concepts: a shaded terrace bistrot perfect for power lunches, a cocktail bar focusing on tropical fruit and herb-infused drinks, and a restaurant that presents tasting menus and a la carte options merging Caceres’s Colombian roots with Italian culinary traditions. Fans of his Uovo 65° Carbonara (a soft-cooked egg in Parmigiano-Reggiano foam, accompanied by puffed pasta and tender guanciale) can enjoy it at the bistrot, while the restaurant showcases his famous lacquered eel with pickled onions.

Gabriele Bonci’s renowned pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) shop near the Vatican Museums has gained global fame for its cold-fermented, heirloom wheat dough topped with exceptional produce from biodynamic farms, along with artisanal cured meats and cheeses. While most toppings vary daily or even hourly, Pizzarium’s classics (tomato-oregano and potato-mozzarella) are almost always available. Seating is limited to a few high-top tables outside, so don’t tire yourself too much in the museums before visiting. The shop is often crowded at lunchtime; to avoid a long wait, consider stopping by after 3 p.m.

For those craving spice in Rome, options can be scarce, with locals often claiming that even black pepper is too spicy. Therefore, the arrival of Tianci Chongqing Farm Hot Pot is a small miracle, flourishing in a city that usually shies away from heat. Located a short walk from the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, this restaurant offers diners bubbling pots of broth (spiced with as much garlic and chile as you desire) for cooking vegetables, seafood, noodles, meats, and offal.

Located just a short stroll from the Trevi Fountain, this welcoming trattoria has been delighting guests with dishes from Emilia-Romagna, a northeastern Italian region, since 1931; the current owners have been running it since 1967. The menu is abundant with house-made pastas featuring eggs, such as tortelli di zucca (pumpkin pasta with butter and sage) and tagliatelle alla bolognese (fresh egg pasta served with a hearty meat sauce). Be sure to leave space for hearty main courses like bollito misto (a selection of simmered meats) and fried liver. 

Located just 100 feet from Rome’s best-preserved ancient monument, Armando al Pantheon celebrates local culinary traditions. For over fifty years, the Gargioli family has been faithfully serving Roman classics like fettuccine con le rigaglie di pollo (fettuccine with chicken innards) and coda alla vaccinara (oxtail braised in tomato and celery). Among the seasonal sides, look for puntarelle (Catalonian chicory) with anchovy sauce and carciofi alla romana (simmered artichokes) during the cooler months. Don’t miss the torta antica Roma, a delightful ricotta and strawberry jam pie. The carefully curated wine list continues to improve each year. Reservations are crucial and open (and fill up) one month in advance.

Chef Arcangelo Dandini, renowned for his formal restaurant L’Arcangelo in Prati, launched this laid-back, street food-inspired Mytoury on the ground floor of a Renaissance building in central Rome to share his fried specialties and signature finger foods with everyone. The name draws inspiration from suppli, Roman rice balls, offered in various flavors alongside other fried favorites like crocchette di patate (potato croquettes), polpette di alici (anchovy “meatballs”), and the indulgent crema fritta (fried pastry cream).

After the beloved Settimio al Pellegrino closed in 2022, a restaurant featured on Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, Leonardo Vignoli and Maria Pia Cicconi (known for Cesare al Casaletto) have breathed new life into this establishment. They’ve preserved the restaurant’s iconic tiled floors, mid-century furnishings, and the infamous doorbell that patrons must ring to enter. Located near Campo dei Fiori, the trattoria offers a concise menu that includes minestra con broccoli e arzilla (romanesco and skate soup) and the legendary pan-fried meatballs from former chef-owner Teresa Zazza. The wine selection is filled with budget-friendly natural wines.

While many Roman Mytouries are famous for their brusque service, Hosteria Grappolo d’Oro embraces warmth and hospitality. Friendly staff move through the dining area, which features exposed wooden beams, serving authentic cucina romana classics such as delightful tonnarelli cacio e pepe and succulent roasted suckling lamb. Their five-course Roman tasting menu is a fantastic deal at just 34 euros per person.

Situated in the bustling southwest corner of one of Rome's most frequented squares, Forno Campo de’ Fiori specializes in both sweet and savory Roman treats, including jam tarts and flatbreads. Don't miss their pizza alla pala, long slabs baked in a deep electric oven and sold by weight; the rich toppings and crunchy crusts create a delightful balance. The pizza con mortadella, featuring salty slices of pizza bianca with thin layers of mortadella, is among the finest bites in the city.

Culinary duo Francesca Barreca and Marco Baccannelli have reopened their iconic restaurant Mazzo after a five-year break, now in a more central San Lorenzo location that’s easier for locals to access. The dining area has expanded from a single 12-seat communal table to a spacious setup featuring a large porthole into the well-lit kitchen. True to its roots, the new Mazzo serves nostalgic dishes like wagon wheel pasta with braised beef and onions, alongside beloved classics such as fried tripe topped with grated pecorino Romano in a rich tomato sauce, a modern twist on the traditional trippa alla romana.

The Regoli family, originally charcoal makers from Tuscany, established Pasticceria Regoli in 1916 upon their arrival in Rome. Over the years, they have evolved their modest business into one of the city's most cherished pastry shops. The display cases are filled with an array of treats, including cakes, wild strawberry tarts, maritozzi (buns filled with whipped cream), and seasonal specialties such as bigne in March, colombe at Easter, and pandoro during Christmas. You can take your pastries to go or order at the counter, and the kitchen will deliver your selections to your table at the adjacent Caffé Regoli, which also offers coffee.

Fasika and Giovanni Ghirlanda operate this long-standing Ethiopian and Eritrean restaurant located just off the historic Via Prenestina, close to Villa Gordiani public park. Here, you'll find richly flavored stews of vegetables and legumes, alongside well-seasoned chicken and beef dishes, all served on freshly made injera.

Established in 2004 by Rome’s renowned baking family in the Historic Center, Salumeria Roscioli serves as a deli, wine bar, and restaurant all in one. While the menu is diverse, the highlights include their incredible cheeses (like burrata with semi-dried tomatoes), exquisite cured meats (such as Culaccia and mortadella paired with Parmigiano-Reggiano), and classic pasta dishes (try the gricia, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, or carbonara). If you dine during lunch or early dinner, expect warm bread from the nearby Antico Forno Roscioli. The wine selection is extensive, and don't skip the distilled spirits to wrap up your meal. Reservations are essential, especially for ground-floor, bar counter, or outdoor seating to avoid the basement area.

After over a decade of offering Italian and French cheeses and wines near the historic Ghetto of Rome, Beppe e I Suoi Formaggi has undergone a significant renovation, shrinking both its space and menu. The single dining room now showcases an impressive selection of cheeses crafted by owner Beppe Giovale and others. The menu is heavily centered on dairy, featuring cheese platters, butter, and ricotta, which are served alongside salted anchovies and honey, complemented by natural wines. The wine list includes unique collaborations with producers like Sicily’s Nino Barraco.

At Casalino, a kosher Mytoury located on the main street of Rome's Jewish quarter, the menu pays homage to the culinary traditions of the historic ghetto. Expect fried delights like carciofi alla giudia (crispy deep-fried artichokes) and verdure in pastella (battered vegetables), along with simpler fish dishes such as tortino di alici (baked anchovies). In addition to timeless Roman Jewish staples, Casalino offers contemporary takes, including carbonara made with tuna instead of guanciale and cacio e pepe adorned with crispy squash blossoms.

For over three hundred years, Rome’s Jewish population was restricted to a walled ghetto by the Tiber River. While the dilapidated buildings have vanished, a historic bakery from that era still thrives on the bustling main street of the now-transformed neighborhood. The pizza ebraica, a fruit cake made from almond flour and packed with nuts, raisins, and candied fruits, is a convenient treat to enjoy on the go. However, it's best to find a bench and savor a slice of the exquisite ricotta and sour-cherry tart, which can get a bit messy. Don't miss the amaretti and biscotti, generously flavored with cinnamon and whole almonds.

Consistently ranked among Europe’s top drinking spots, this well-established craft beer pub in Trastevere features around a dozen draft options from Italy, the U.S., Belgium, Germany, and the U.K., along with a carefully selected range of bottled beers. The enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you find the perfect brew for your taste. It’s definitely worth waiting for one of the coveted outdoor tables, which provide a prime view of Trastevere’s vibrant nightlife. Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà welcomes patrons every day of the year, including Christmas, Easter, Ferragosto, and New Year’s.

Trapizzino is a compact street food chain found throughout Italy and even in New York. The idea revolves around the trapizzino, a hybrid of the beloved triangular tramezzino sandwich and long-fermented pizza dough, created by pizzaiolo Stefano Callegari in 2009. He fills these triangular delights with Roman favorites such as oxtail stew with tomato and celery, chicken cacciatore, and tripe in tomato sauce, all priced at 5 euros or less. While most locations offer a quick and budget-friendly meal, the Trastevere branch also provides table service and a comprehensive bar featuring wines and beers from all over Lazio.

Make sure to book an online reservation before you ring the bell at number 10 on Via del Moro in Trastevere. This trendy, windowless hideaway features only a few tables along its two walls, which tend to fill up quickly with 90-minute reservation slots starting at 6 p.m. The decor channels the Orient Express, complete with wooden details and overhead racks, while the bartenders’ attire and glassware harken back to a bygone era. The drink menu, featuring bottled classic cocktails, Champagne, and non-alcoholic options, offers a sophisticated retreat amidst the lively nightlife of Rome.

Latteria Trastevere is a vibrant wine bar and bistro situated in the heart of Rome’s nightlife, specializing in natural wines, artisan cheeses, and cured meats sourced from exclusive producers across Italy. They also offer a selection of hot dishes, with Sardinian owner Antonio Cossu featuring island delicacies like sa fregola (pearl couscous) with crab, alongside bottles from Barbagia, one of Sardinia’s premier wine regions. Plus, Latteria welcomes guests almost every day of the year.

Located a short stroll from the Colosseum, Tempio di Iside is a refined seafood restaurant celebrated for its crudi (raw offerings) such as fish carpaccio, sea urchin roe, langoustines, and oysters. The pasta featuring sweet red shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and fresh pecorino is exceptional (serving as a testament that there are exceptions to the “no cheese with seafood” guideline), along with their spaghetti with clams, whole roasted fish, and dishes with spiny lobster. Reservations are essential, particularly if you wish to secure an outdoor table during the summer evenings, and anticipate a premium price for some of the freshest seafood available.

Situated in the extensive Centocelle district of eastern Rome, Menabò Vino e Cucina provides an authentic journey through Italian regional comfort dishes. Rigatoni is paired with a savory onion-braised beef reminiscent of Neapolitan style, while pasta with chickpeas and mussels brings flavors of the coastal south. Local favorites like pasta alla gricia receive a fresh twist with seasonal ingredients such as grapes or figs. True to its name, the wine list complements the culinary offerings, featuring primarily naturally and traditionally produced wines.

Situated near the Circus Maximus, literally above the ruins, Circoletto is a natural wine bar and craft beer pub offering small plates and panini that highlight the bold, seasonal flavors of Rome and its surroundings. There’s a notable focus on offal—tongue pastrami nestled between crispy layers of pizza bianca and unadorned head cheese—alongside a variety of meat dishes such as mutton tartare and grilled skirt steak. Fish dishes include marinated anchovies and fried cod filets, complemented by a selection of vegetables like romanesco cooked until wonderfully tender.

After honing his skills in renowned Roman establishments like Salumeria Roscioli, Pasquale Borriello opened his own shop in 2022. Located in Trastevere near the church of San Francesco a Ripa, this cozy spot features a few high-top tables where patrons can enjoy natural wines or craft beers alongside some of Italy's finest cheeses. The menu showcases well-known varieties like Parmigiano-Reggiano, gorgonzola, and mozzarella di bufala, with a preference for the smallest, artisanal producers. There's also a remarkable selection of goat- and cow-milk blue cheeses from esteemed affineur Andrea Magi. In addition to cheese, Forme offers cured meats, sandwiches, and pantry staples like jars of unique marinated vegetables.

Marco Radicioni trained under Rome’s gelato master Claudio Torcè, adopting his philosophy of all-natural flavors, careful sourcing, and subtle sweetness. Since establishing his own gelateria, Radicioni has become a maestro in his own right, crafting some of Italy's most exquisite gelato. His latest location in Monteverde Vecchio not only serves Otaleg's rich, creamy gelato made from premium pistachios and chocolates, but also specialty coffee and artisanal pastries, turning Otaleg into a hub for third-wave coffee enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Trastevere location remains focused exclusively on gelato and sorbet.

Chef Sarah Cicolini began her journey in high-end kitchens, but her true talent lies in crafting authentic trattoria dishes that capture the heartfelt simplicity of Roman peasant food — a refreshing shift in a city where young chefs often struggle to modernize traditional recipes. Guests flock to Cicolini’s cozy dining space in the residential Appio-Latino area for classics like carbonara and amatriciana, as well as a variety of quinto quarto (offal) offerings, including the exquisite trippa alla romana (tripe cooked with tomato, seasoned with pecorino Romano and mint). Be sure to save room for desserts like the maritozzo (cream-filled bun) made with smoky grano arso flour.

Nestled in Testaccio, the heart of Rome’s offal scene, Piatto Romano specializes in traditional dishes such as rigatoni con la pajata (pasta with milk-fed veal intestines simmered in tomato sauce) and fettuccine con le rigaglie di pollo (fettuccine with chicken innards). For those seeking pescatarian delights, the menu features exceptional cod baked with onions, pine nuts, apricots, and prunes, alongside pan-fried anchovies enlivened with vinegar and chili. Don’t miss the remarkable vegetable dishes, particularly the foraged greens salad dressed with anchovy and sumac, and the marinated, grilled squashes.

Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, this market is the prime destination in central Rome for seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and baked goods—all in one bustling spot. Arrive in the morning to witness the vibrant atmosphere (open Monday through Saturday until 2 p.m. and on select evenings). Don’t miss Da Artenio (Box 90) for takeaway pizza slices and pizzette topped with tomato sauce, potatoes, or onions. Essential stops include Mordi e Vai (Box 15), where the Esposito family serves offal and meat sandwiches based on cherished family recipes, including historic dishes like alesso di scottona (braised brisket). Nearby, Da Corrado (Box 18) offers natural wines, artisanal cheeses, and excellent polpette (meatballs), while Casa Manco (Box 22) serves naturally leavened pizza by weight, and Sicché (Box 37) specializes in soups, sandwiches, and salads inspired by Tuscany.

After honing their skills in fine dining both in Italy and abroad, Leonardo Vignoli and Maria Pia Cicconi returned to their roots with Cesare al Casaletto, a no-frills trattoria they took over in 2009. The menu showcases Roman classics with subtle twists, such as fried gnocchi served over a luscious cacio e pepe sauce. The pasta alla gricia has garnered a dedicated following, while the succulent lamb dishes are a highlight. The wine list features a selection of impressively affordable natural wines from Italy, France, and Slovenia. Although Cesare isn’t near major landmarks, it’s easily reachable by public transport, and a post-lunch stroll through the nearby Villa Pamphili park is highly recommended.

Just a short walk from Stazione Trastevere, C’è Pasta… e Pasta (which means “There’s pasta… and pasta”) offers tasty kosher meals for dining in or takeout. Place your order at the counter and be sure to try Roman Jewish specialties like carciofi alla giudia (fried artichokes), filetti di baccala (battered fried cod), aliciotti con l’indivia (anchovy and frisée casserole), and concia (fried and marinated zucchini). True to its name, they also feature a variety of pasta dishes and sell fresh pasta for home cooking.

Bruno Persiani, originally from Umbria, opened this cozy trattoria in southern Trastevere in 1968, blending dishes from both Umbria and Rome. Now managed by Persiani’s daughters and his Sardinian son-in-law, the restaurant features regional specialties like wood-fired suckling pig. The fresh pasta is superb (especially the lasagna served on Sundays, which sells out quickly), and the wood-roasted brisket is extraordinary. The wine list includes organic and natural selections from Italy and Slovenia. Service here is exceptionally warm and patient — a delightful rarity in the Italian capital.

To reach Latta Fermenti e Miscele, you’ll descend a steep ramp leading from the street into a transformed industrial space that now houses various bars and Mytouries. This particular venue shines with its warm service and a bar menu that highlights Italy’s unique bittersweet and botanical flavors through cocktails, natural wines, and craft beers.

As the shutters rise at Pantera in Garbatella, eager patrons line the sidewalk, excited for the shop’s sheet pan-baked pizza and deliciously gooey supplì. Their popularity is largely due to the talented owners, Nicolò and Manuel Trecastelli, who have made a name for themselves as champions of Roman cuisine at Circoletto and Trecca. The cozy spot draws crowds for its perfectly crispy and chewy slices, sold by weight, ensuring each bite is utterly satisfying.

Triticum, an artisanal bakery nestled in Rome’s Marconi district, features minimalist decor that directs attention to the counter brimming with both savory and sweet treats. Customers can indulge in thick, spongy tomato and olive focaccia, pizza alla pala (flatbread baked on stone and sold by the slice), cinnamon rolls, and delicate laminated pastries. Behind the counter, a display of sourdough breads complements a selection of spreads from Marco Colzani and honey from Miele Thun, both available for purchase.

Childhood friends Fabio Macrì and Mauro Lenci transformed a former print shop near the Basilica di San Paolo into Rome’s take on a Parisian neo-bistrot. Their wine selection showcases natural wines from across Europe, but it’s the small plates that truly make Bar Bozza shine, featuring dishes like pork skirt steak paired with blistered peppers and drizzled with hot honey, or frittata enriched with zucchini and creamy Parmigiano-Reggiano. Macrì and Lenci achieve this delightful experience with a refreshing lack of pretension.

After almost three decades running Rome’s first Thai restaurant, Beijing-born chef Ge Jing Hua launched Sinosteria in 2020, showcasing a fusion of Chinese regional cuisines. Highlights include Beijing-style tripe with chile oil and cilantro, along with Shandong-inspired squid sautéed with peppers, ginger, and bamboo. Signature dishes like basmati rice enriched with coconut milk, shrimp, capers, and oregano from Pantelleria also feature. The front of house shines under the lively management of Ge’s son Jun, whose impressive natural wine selection and coffee offerings are noteworthy.

Trecca is best described as a neo-trattoria, embodying the essence of a traditional Roman trattoria with its casual atmosphere, strictly seasonal comfort food, and a menu that highlights offal. However, it also boasts a natural wine selection, an engaging Instagram presence, and is run by two young brothers. Manuel and Nicolò Trecastelli expertly embrace the bold flavors and quality ingredients of Rome. Their carbonara and amatriciana are generously loaded with peppery guanciale, and their meat dishes cleverly use tomato and vinegar to balance the richness.