Planning your Roman holiday? Well, sightseeing is a breeze—you can’t toss a coin without it landing on some ancient marvel. But when it comes to finding the best restaurants in Rome, it’s a whole different ball game. Surrounded by a sea of tourist traps, uncovering the true culinary gems can feel like a treasure hunt.
Don’t sweat it—we’ve got your back! From mind-blowing pasta that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew, to pizzas that defy all expectations, and cozy osterias that will be the highlight of your travel tales, this list covers it all. Whether you’re a veggie lover, a meat enthusiast, or somewhere in between, these picks for the best restaurants in Rome will satisfy every craving and culinary curiosity. Read on and let your taste buds take the lead!
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Discover 10 Best Restaurants in Rome: Unveiling the City’s Culinary Secrets for Foodies
1. Checchino dal 1887: A Feast for the Brave in Rome’s Culinary Scene
If you’re on the hunt for one of the best restaurants in Rome with a menu that’s off-the-beaten-path, Checchino dal 1887 is the place to be. But let’s get one thing straight—this spot is an offal lover’s paradise. If dining on animal innards isn’t your idea of a good time, either embrace the challenge or opt for their stellar vegetarian offerings.
Start your gastronomic adventure with veal head garnished with citrus zest, then dive into the beef tripe simmered in pecorino, mint, and tomato sauce. Vegetarians can savor the pecorino-and-sage bruschetta or indulge in spaghetti swirled with artichoke cream, mint, and parmesan. And don’t forget the sides—roast potatoes and chicory bursting with flavor. Finish off with a delicate, wobbly panna cotta, because who says your taste buds can’t have a little fun? Whether you’re daring or cautious, Checchino dal 1887 has solidified its spot as one of the best restaurants in Rome for an unforgettable culinary experience.
2. Giano
Nestled within the luxurious W Rome, Giano is one of the best restaurants in Rome, offering a glamorous dining experience that captivates guests from the moment they enter. The restaurant’s opulent decor features plush velvet couches, low lighting, and wooden accents, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere perfect for enjoying authentic Sicilian cuisine served on vibrant plates.
As one of the best restaurants in Rome, Giano boasts an impressive cocktail menu, featuring creative drinks like the ‘Wake Up Call’—a delightful blend of Belvedere Vodka, vanilla ice cream, espresso coffee, and Italian Amaro—and the ‘Working Hard,’ which combines Campari, Red Ancho Reyes, Cocchi Red Vermouth, agave, and Del Maguey Vida Mezcal.
The menu emphasizes Sicilian flavors, with highlights including fennel and orange salad and pasta with fried eggplant, tomato, and salted ricotta. Giano also offers a delightful happy hour menu, perfect for enjoying a selection of snacks like crispy fried calamari, sesame sandwiches with fried chickpeas, and toast topped with anchovies.
For families, Giano’s Sunday brunch is a must-try, featuring a buffet that includes grilled fish skewers, tomato and mozzarella rice balls, roasted lamb shank with couscous, and a tempting array of desserts. Giano truly stands out among the best restaurants in Rome, making it a top choice for anyone looking to indulge in delicious Sicilian fare.
3. Armando al Pantheon: A Roman Classic Steps from History
Who says proximity to tourist hotspots means sacrificing authentic flavor? Armando al Pantheon shatters that myth, standing proudly as one of the best restaurants in Rome, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Pantheon. Stepping inside feels like a warm embrace from the past, with dark wooden panels, shelves overflowing with wine bottles, and a chef handcrafting pasta like it’s still the 1960s—because, in this family-run gem, it’s been that way since then.
The menu is a love letter to Roman cuisine, making it nearly impossible to choose between the stracciatella romana, carbonara, and amatriciana. The amatriciana often steals the show, though, and for good reason. Picture this: salty guanciale mingling with juicy tomatoes, a kick of black pepper, and perfectly al dente rigatoni, all crowned with a sprinkle of sharp pecorino. It’s the kind of simple, yet soul-satisfying dish that makes Armando al Pantheon not just a meal, but a must-visit among the best restaurants in Rome.
4. Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina: A Flavor-Packed Roman Delight
Imagine a place where a restaurant, wine bar, deli, and bakery all come together in perfect harmony—welcome to Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina, a hidden gem nestled between Campo de’ Fiori and the Jewish Ghetto. This charming spot, overflowing with old-world allure, will have you swooning over shelves stacked with wine, fridges brimming with cheeses, and tables surrounded by the finest cured meats. It’s no wonder it’s one of the best restaurants in Rome.
The menu here is an epic tale of culinary delight, leaving you torn between countless tempting choices. But when gnocchi calls, you answer—especially when it’s paired with pesto, bottarga, and fava beans. This dish is a masterclass in flavor balance: nutty fava beans meet the sweet snap of spring onions, all wrapped up in pillow-soft gnocchi. And let’s not forget the almond pesto, which brings all the punch of the traditional pine nut version but with a lighter, nuttier twist.
5. Cantina e Cucina
Cantina e Cucina is easily the most charming contender among the best restaurants in Rome. Tucked around the corner from Piazza Navona, this cozy osteria draws you in with its warm, old-school Roman vibes—think brick walls, hanging ornaments, and an ambiance that feels just like home. The ever-present line outside is a testament to its popularity, but don’t worry; the wait is sweetened with a glass of prosecco and smiles from the staff.
Once inside, prepare your taste buds for some classic Roman dishes that are nothing short of divine. Start with the deep-fried artichokes, a heavenly mix of crispy tops and buttery bottoms that deliver a meaty texture with every bite. But the real showstopper? The saltimbocca alla Romana. Tender veal wrapped in salty prosciutto, kissed with sage, and drenched in a white wine marinade—it’s a flavor explosion that’ll have you singing its praises long after the meal ends.
6. La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali
La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali isn’t just a top contender in Monti; it’s a standout among the best restaurants in Rome. Just a short stroll from the Colosseum and Roman Forum, it’s the perfect spot for those craving a true taste of Rome after a day of exploring.
Getting a table here can be a challenge without a reservation, but trust us, it’s worth the effort. The interior is a delightful blend of rustic elegance, with high ceilings and understated furnishings that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a secret Roman hideaway.
Now, onto the main attraction: the food. Their cacio e pepe has been perfected over four generations, making it a must-try for anyone serious about Roman cuisine. And if you’re looking for something even more indulgent, the cacio e pepe with black truffle is a game-changer. The dish arrives, and the aroma of pepper and earthy truffle fills the air, making your taste buds dance in anticipation. With silky spaghetti bathed in creamy, tangy pecorino, this is a dining experience that solidifies La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali’s status as one of the best restaurants in Rome.
7. SantoPalato
Tucked away in the Appio Latino quarter, SantoPalato is the hidden gem among the best restaurants in Rome that even locals might hesitate to share. Far from the tourist traps, this no-frills trattoria is as authentic as they come. Picture classic Italian tiles underfoot, two-tone walls adorned with vintage photos, and dark wooden tables that welcome you like an old friend.
The star of the show here? The carbonara, of course. If you’re a true pasta enthusiast, SantoPalato’s version will make your heart (and taste buds) sing. The rich, savory pancetta paired with the velvety egg yolk is pure Roman bliss on a plate. And let’s not forget the wine – a sommelier’s suggestion of a crisp Pinot Noir took the dish to heavenly heights, perfectly balancing the deep flavors of the carbonara with its fruity notes.
8. Pizzeria Emma
Nestled in the bustling heart of Rome, just a stone’s throw from Campo de’ Fiori, Pizzeria Emma is where pizza fantasies become crispy, delicious reality. This modern trattoria may not flaunt the fanciest décor—think high glass ceilings and minimalist vibes—but trust us, it doesn’t need to. The real showstopper here is the pizza.
Rome’s pizzas are the stuff of legend, and Pizzeria Emma serves them up with style. Forget the gooey Neapolitan kind; here, it’s all about that signature thin crust, baked to perfection with a delightful crunch in every bite. Quality is the name of the game, with toppings that let you channel your inner pizza artist. Fancy buffalo mozzarella with truffle shavings? Go wild. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.
And for those who like their pizza with a side of vino or craft brew, Pizzeria Emma’s got you covered. Their extensive selection of small-production wines and beers will make any meal a feast.
On your quest to find the best restaurants in Rome, Pizzeria Emma is a must-visit. And if your pizza obsession knows no bounds, don’t miss their pizza-making experience or our ultimate guide to Italy’s pizza styles!
9. Trattoria Pennestri
Trattoria Pennestri is one of the best restaurants in Rome for those seeking a cozy, inviting atmosphere and a meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated. With its warm interiors and friendly service, this trattoria encourages guests to unwind and savor each dish at a leisurely pace. The menu is a delightful blend of rustic Italian flavors with a refined twist, featuring dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Wine lovers will appreciate the thoughtfully curated list, offering an impressive variety by the glass. Don’t miss the unforgettable dessert—a rich chocolate mousse with a hint of rosemary, served alongside Sardinian flatbread for the perfect sweet and savory finish.
10. Flavio al Velavevodetto
Tucked away in Rome’s ever-hip Trastevere neighborhood, Flavio al Velavevodetto is a trattoria that refuses to abandon its old-school charm. While the area might be buzzing with the latest trends, this place is proudly rooted in tradition. Set against the backdrop of ancient Roman ruins, the restaurant boasts vaulted stone ceilings and a sprawling outdoor terrace, perfect for those summer nights when pasta under the stars is non-negotiable.
But what really sets Flavio al Velavevodetto apart is its true farm-to-table philosophy—no, really. They source their meat from their own herds and flocks, and the veggies? Grown on-site, naturally. It’s the kind of authenticity that makes it one of the best restaurants in Rome.
Speaking of pasta, this is where the classics shine. Whether it’s the rich rigatoni alla carbonara, the savory pasta alla gricia, or the beloved cacio e pepe, each dish is a love letter to Roman cuisine. In the grand conversation about the best restaurants in Rome, Flavio al Velavevodetto’s name is always on the tip of every pasta lover’s tongue.
