Italy is famous for its world-class cuisine and the comfort food we all know and love. It’s not just about pasta and pizza though, Rome lines up loads of spectacular seafood dishes and experimental cuisine too. You can take your pick from family-run tavernas, fine dining restaurants with a view, and famous pizza joints.
Here are some of the best places to eat in Rome…
ARMANDO AL PANTHEON
This renowned eatery is just around the corner from the Pantheon, so it’s the perfect place to duck into when you need to refuel after all that sightseeing. The restaurant is popular with both tourists and locals and it books up well in advance, so you might have to plan your visit if you’re travelling during peak season. Food-wise, you’ll find plates piled high with pasta and simple toppings like garlic, oil and chilli or black pepper and romano cheese. The fresh ingredients are few, but the flavours are balanced and the meals filling.
Blue Route, Stop: Piazza Venezia
armandoalpantheon.it/en
TAVERNA DEI FORI IMPERIALI
This friendly, family-run taverna is centrally-located, and just a short walk from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It offers delicious, budget-friendly fare and all the classic dishes like pasta, gnocchi and saltimbocca. There are always daily specials like homemade pasta with truffle ragu, giving you the option to try something new. And, the dessert cart is particularly popular, with a range of homemade cakes to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Blue Route, Stop: Piazza Venezia
latavernadeiforiimperiali.com
LA PERGOLA
This restaurant pairs mouth-watering gourmet cuisine with some of the best views of the city. It’s located on the top floor of Cavalieri Hotel, and from one of the many window seats, you’ll get sweeping views over St Peter's Basilica and Rome’s stunning sights. This place is only open for dinner and, for the best all-round experience, you can choose the 10-course tasting menu which will take you on an Italian culinary journey. The courses include a mix of local favourites and experimental dishes like filled pasta "Fagottini", lamb on a soft lentils cream, and red mullet with artichokes.
ACQUOLINA
If you’re a fan of fish, you’ll love this Michelin-starred seafood restaurant which combines freshly-caught fare with unique recipes. The setting is sophisticated, with original artworks adorning the walls, and plenty of natural light through the large picture windows. On the menu you’ll find the likes of deep-fried seafood platters, fish stew and seafood carbonara incorporating all of Rome’s local catch, including salmon, tuna, anchovies and mussels.
Blue Route, Stop: Ludovisi / Spanish Steps
PIZZARIUM
You can’t visit Italy without getting a pizza "al taglio", and Rome has several pizza joints for you to choose from. Pizzarium is one of the most famous in the city, and when you taste a slice of the doughy goodness, you’ll see why. The secret to their delicious pizza is the long bread-making process and carefully sourced flour, giving the crust the best balance of crispness and chew. This combined with fresh toppings and homemade sauces makes the perfect slice. After you’ve eaten your way through several slices, take a pizza-making class and learn how to do it yourself.
Excited to eat your way around Italy’s capital city and taste all that delicious Roman food? Start planning your foodie holiday today, and browse our Rome bus routes for more itinerary inspiration.
