While you’re exploring Rome and taking in the artistry of the buildings, you’re going to need some good food to go with it all, so I have put together a list of the best restaurants in Rome. You have to try some authentic Roman dishes at least a few times. So, here are some of the best restaurants in Rome.
This list of recommendations has a place by the Pantheon, some famous restaurants, pizzerias, trattorias & even some bakeries. Here, you’ll find some old and established eateries and some that have made a mark recently, all which make up the best restaurants in Rome.
Armando al Pantheon
If you’re planning a trip to Rome — especially your first — chances are that you’re going to the Pantheon. While you’re charting out your itinerary, you might want to consider fitting in a meal at the Michelin-starred Armando al Pantheon as you visit the church that was once a temple.
It’s near the Pantheon yet closed off from the noise of the tourist attraction. It’s not just its location that makes Armando al Pantheon a hit among visitors. The food, the service & the feel of the place also play a part in its success. It’s family-owned and serves traditional Italian food in a wood-paneled room. The place is cozy but not very large so make sure your reservations are in place before you visit.
Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina
Also, family-owned and another food institution of Rome is Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina. A business that started off as a bakery, Roscioli is now a bakery, restaurant, deli & wine bar rolled into one.
Both locals and tourists are happy with the food and service here and often say that is THE PLACE to go for some Carbonara. Other favorites here are the Anchovies Toast and the Tiramisu. This place is also a small one, so book a table before you go.
Seu Pizza Illuminati
And this is where you go for your Pizza. Seu Pizza Illuminati is known for Neapolitan-style pizzas and creativity in its cooking. You’ll find classics as well as innovative toppings on the famous light and fluffy crusts of this place.
Seu Pizza Illuminati is far from the hustle and bustle of Rome, yet it fills up very fast. Reservation is the way into this contemporary pizzeria. You’ll find vegetarian and vegan pizzas here. The menu also has a good spread of desserts.
Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto
Pastas, Pizzas, Suppli & Italian wine. You’ll find them all here. Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto is one of Rome’s favorite trattorias and specializes in Roman style of cooking.
You’ll find all your classic Italian dishes here, too. The Amatriciana & pasta Alla Gricia here are just two of the highly recommended items on their menu. Placed in a residential neighborhood, this trattoria, simply called Da Cesare, is liked by locals. Tourists will find this to be a hidden gem and most will tell you that the cab ride to this trattoria was well worth it.
The restaurant is a family-friendly one, too. Reservations are a must and the way to do it is with a call to the restaurant.
La Pergola
If you’re looking for a gourmet experience, make your way to La Pergola near the Vatican. This restaurant is within Waldorf Rome Cavalieri Hotel and offers not just fine food and excellent service but also panoramic views of The Vatican and Rome.
Its decor is tastefully done and the ambiance is great. Plus the wine pairing is awesome! It’s a Michelin-starred restaurant. This is also the place to try out a 10-course meal.
Marigold
Marigold stands out on Rome’s food scene by being a bakery-cafe-type multi-cuisine restaurant. Simple and minimalistic, this place focuses on fresh and high-quality food.
It’s a great place for breakfast and the bread & coffee served here are very highly spoken of. You’ll find plenty of vegetarian options too. Their menu changes every day and is highly dependant on the produce available. They’ll always have egg and avocado toast, though.
Santo Palato
Santo Palato is a relatively new restaurant but one that gained popularity in a few years’ time. It’s a bit out of town and a big hit with locals. It’s another one of those restaurants that looks simple and gives the most importance to what’s cooked and served there. The dishes depend on the availability of fresh ingredients.
Santo Palato specializes in classic Italian dishes with a bit of a modern twist. Non-vegetarians will find a lot to like at this place.
Antico Arco
Here’s a restaurant that serves classical Roman cuisine in a cozy, elegant, yet casual dining area. It’s liked for its innovative dishes, wine selection & flawless service. Antico Arco’s 7-course tasting menu is also very popular.
Situated on a hill, this restaurant is a great option for romantic dinners and special occasions. The fact that it’s open all year round and remains open all afternoon, into the evening and night also makes it stand apart from the other fine-dining restaurants in Rome.
La Gatta Mangiona
La Gatta Mangiona is a restaurant and pizzeria that’s a local favorite. It serves good suppli and pasta, however it’s the pizza that’s the biggest draw here. Some say this place serves the best pizza in Rome and there are others that say it’s among the best pizzerias in the world. So if you’re a pizza person, you might want to make a trip here while you’re in Rome.
And because this place is popular with locals as well as tourists, make your reservations to eat here, before you go, as it is one of the best restaurants in Rome.
Osteria Fernanda
If you’re in the mood for some fusion food or are adventurous when it comes to food, you might have some fun at Osteria Fernanda.
Osteria Fernanda is a chic place with some innovative dishes brought to you in a creative way. They’ve even got a couple of tasting menus on offer.
