Best Restaurants In Rome

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Rome is a city that boasts a rich and varied culinary scene, with an abundance of restaurants offering everything from traditional Italian cooking to international cuisine. With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide where to dine when visiting the Eternal City. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a family-friendly spot for lunch, there are plenty of great places in Rome to choose from.

In this article, we've scoured Rome's culinary landscape and put together a list of the best restaurants in Rome. From upscale fine dining establishments to cozy trattorias, our recommendations showcase some of the most delicious and memorable dining experiences the Italian capital has to offer.

1. Felice a Testaccio

Felice a Testaccio is one of the most popular restaurants in Rome, and for good reason. This traditional restaurant has been serving up Roman cuisine since 1936, and it's still going strong today. I've been to Felice a Testaccio several times, and I've always been impressed with the quality of the food and the service.

One of the standout dishes at Felice a Testaccio is the spaghetti alla carbonara. Made with crispy guanciale and fresh pecorino, this dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Rome. Another great dish is the oxtail stew, which is cooked to perfection and served with creamy polenta. If you're feeling adventurous, try the offal dishes, which are a specialty of the restaurant.

In addition to the meat dishes, Felice a Testaccio also offers some great vegetarian options. The gnocchi alla sorrentina is a personal favorite, made with fresh tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. The cacio e pepe is another classic Roman dish that is done to perfection at Felice a Testaccio.

The atmosphere at Felice a Testaccio is traditional and welcoming, with a cozy dining room and friendly staff. It's the perfect place for a traditional dining experience in central Rome. If you're looking for a great meal in a classic Roman restaurant, Felice a Testaccio is definitely worth a visit.

Contact:

Address: Via Mastro Giorgio, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 574 6800

2. Seu Pizza Illuminati

As I was researching the best restaurants in Rome, Seu Pizza Illuminati kept popping up in my search results. I decided to check it out for myself, and I was not disappointed. Seu Pizza Illuminati is known for its delicious pizza, and it definitely lives up to the hype.

The pizzeria offers a variety of options, including pizza al taglio and Neapolitan pies. I opted for the classic Margherita, and it was one of the best pizzas in Rome I've ever had. The crust was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella were perfectly balanced.

One thing that sets Seu Pizza Illuminati apart from other pizzerias in Rome is its trapizzino. This unique dish is a combination of pizza and a sandwich, and it's definitely worth trying. The trapizzino at Seu Pizza Illuminati is filled with a variety of delicious toppings, including meatballs and eggplant parmigiana.

In addition to the amazing food, Seu Pizza Illuminati has a great atmosphere. The restaurant is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They were happy to answer any questions I had about the menu and offer recommendations.

Contact:

Address: Via Angelo Bargoni, 10 - 18, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 588 3384

3. Osteria Fernanda

When I was looking for the best Rome restaurants, Osteria Fernanda caught my attention. This upscale intimate restaurant has received a lot of positive reviews and is known for its fine dining experience. I decided to give it a try and was not disappointed.

One of the standout dishes at Osteria Fernanda is their piatto romano, which is a traditional Roman recipe made with pasta, bacon, and pecorino cheese. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the portion size was just right. I also tried their tiramisu, which was one of the best I've ever had.

The atmosphere at Osteria Fernanda is warm and intimate, with dim lighting and a rustic decor. It's the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The service is also excellent, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are happy to make recommendations and answer any questions.

Contact:

Address: Via Crescenzo del Monte, 18, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 328 384 7924

4. Roscioli

If you're looking for a restaurant in Rome that offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, Roscioli is the place to go. The restaurant is situated in one of the best Italian food outlets in Rome, which offers delicacies such as typical Roman pastas, cooked and raw fish, meat, an impressive selection of cured hams and cheeses, as well as top-quality ingredients such as anchovies and mozzarella.

As a food enthusiast, I was impressed by the quality of food and the range of options available at Roscioli. The restaurant is known for its deli, which offers a wide selection of cured meats and Italian and French cheeses. I highly recommend trying their charcuterie board, which comes with a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and other delicious treats.

Also as a brunch spot, Roscioli does not disappoint. They offer a brunch menu that includes a variety of egg dishes, pastries, and fresh juices. The restaurant is also known for its cocktails, offering a cool mix of traditional swills such as martinis, gin and tonics, and a boozy, toe-twinkling Negroni.

In terms of affordability, Roscioli may not be the cheapest restaurant in Rome, but the quality of food and service makes it worth the price. It's also worth noting that the restaurant is popular among tourists, so it's recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Contact:

Address: Via dei Giubbonari, 21, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 687 5287

5. Da Cesare al Casaletto

I had the pleasure of dining at Da Cesare al Casaletto during my recent trip to Rome, and it was truly a memorable experience. This trattoria is located in the Monteverde neighborhood, a bit outside of the city center, but the journey is well worth it for the delicious food and inviting atmosphere.

As a traditional Roman trattoria, Da Cesare al Casaletto serves up classic dishes with a modern twist. The fritti misti, featuring baccalà and squash blossoms, were a perfect start to the meal. For the main course, I opted for the rigatoni alla gricia, a simple but flavorful pasta dish made with guanciale and pecorino cheese. And of course, I couldn't leave without trying the tiramisu, which did not disappoint.

The ambiance at Da Cesare al Casaletto is warm and welcoming, with a large dining room and outdoor terrace perfect for a summer evening. The waiters were friendly and attentive, providing a truly enjoyable dining experience.

Contact:

Address: Via del Casaletto, 45, 00151 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 536015

6. Armando Al Pantheon

As I was exploring the city of Rome, I stumbled upon Armando Al Pantheon, and I was immediately drawn to its traditional atmosphere. The restaurant is located just a stone's throw away from the iconic Pantheon, making it a convenient stop for anyone visiting this famous landmark.

Armando Al Pantheon is a great place to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine, especially if you're a fan of the best pasta. The restaurant is known for its delicious homemade pasta dishes, including the classic carbonara and amatriciana. The portions are generous, and the flavors are rich and satisfying.

If you're feeling adventurous, I highly recommend trying their tripe stew. It's a classic Roman dish that might not be for everyone, but it's definitely worth a try if you're looking to explore new flavors and textures. The restaurant's menu changes frequently to incorporate seasonal ingredients, so there's always something new to try. The wine list is also impressive, with a great selection of Italian wines to complement your meal.

Contact:

Address: Salita de' Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

7. Coromandel

Coromandel is one of the best places to eat in Rome. It is a popular breakfast and brunch place that serves non-Italian typical brunch items like eggs and pancakes. However, it is not just a breakfast place, as it also offers lunch and dinner options. The restaurant has a chic and modern interior, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The restaurant staff is friendly and welcoming, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.

One of the must-try dishes at Coromandel is their chicory and bacon quiche, which is a perfect blend of flavors. They also have a variety of street food pasta, including carbonara and cacio e pepe, which are both delicious. If you're looking for a place to have a drink, Coromandel has a great selection of wines and cocktails. Their Aperol Spritz is a popular choice among customers.

Contact:

Address: Via di Monte Giordano, 60/61, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 6880 2461

8. Enoteca La Torre

Enoteca La Torre is one of the best restaurants in Rome, and it's no wonder why. As one of my favorite restaurants in Rome, it is located in the beautiful Villa Laetitia, a stunning 19th-century villa overlooking the Tiber River. The restaurant has received a Michelin star, and it's easy to see why. The food is expertly prepared, and the wine list is extensive, making it a great spot for wine lovers.

I had the pleasure of dining in Rome at Enoteca La Torre, and I was blown away by the experience. The restaurant's interior is elegant and refined, with high ceilings and delicate tablecloths. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, and they helped me navigate the extensive wine list.

The menu at Enoteca La Torre is focused on traditional Italian cuisine, with a modern twist. I started with the beef tartare, which was perfectly seasoned and served with a quail egg. For my main course, I had the lamb chops, which were cooked to perfection and served with a side of mashed potatoes. The dessert menu is also impressive, with a variety of delicious options to choose from.

Enoteca La Torre is known for its extensive wine list, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant has over 1,500 bottles of wine to choose from, with a focus on Italian wines. The waiters really know the wine list and can help you choose the perfect bottle to enjoy with your meal.

Contact:

Address: Lungotevere delle Armi, 23, 00195 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 4566 8304

9. Ristorante Ar Galletto

Ristorante Ar Galletto is a classic Italian restaurant that serves up delicious Roman meals. If you're a fan of seafood, this is the place for you. The menu features a wide variety of seafood dishes, including some of the best gnocchi I've ever had. The cacio e pepe is also a standout dish, and the tiramisu is the perfect dessert to end your Italian meal.

Contact:

Address: Piazza Farnese, 104, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 686 1714

10. La Pergola

La Pergola is a three-star Michelin restaurant that is considered to be an institution of Italian dining. The restaurant is located on the top floor of the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria hotel, and the views from the terrace are absolutely stunning. The menu features a mix of traditional Italian dishes and more experimental fare, and also, the vegetarian options are excellent.

Contact:

Address: Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, 00136 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 3509 2152

11. Da Enzo al 29

Da Enzo al 29 is a picturesque little eatery located on a quieter street in Trastevere. The restaurant is known for its classic Roman cuisine, and the menu features a variety of meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes. The cacio e pepe is a must-try, and the tiramisu is some of the best in the city.

Contact:

Address: Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 581 2260

12. Ristorante Moma

Ristorante Moma is a fine dining establishment that is known for its classic Roman food with a touch of creativity and innovation. The restaurant is located on Via di San Basilio 42, and it has received a One MICHELIN Star rating in the 2023 MICHELIN Guide in Italy.

One of the things that stood out to me about Ristorante Moma is their use of offal in their dishes. Offal is a less common ingredient in modern cuisine, but it has been a staple in traditional Roman cooking for centuries. Ristorante Moma's chefs use offal in creative ways, such as their signature dish of lamb sweetbreads with marigold and mustard.

The menu at Ristorante Moma changes regularly to reflect the seasons and the availability of fresh, local ingredients. However, some dishes that are often featured on the menu include tonnarelli cacio e pepe with crispy guanciale, and roasted suckling pig with apple and fennel.

In addition to their exceptional food, Ristorante Moma has a beautiful and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with modern art, and the dining room has large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The service is also top-notch, with a knowledgeable and friendly staff who are happy to help you choose the perfect wine to pair with your meal.

Contact:

Address: Via di S. Basilio, 42, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 4201 1798

13. Pizzeria Da Remo

As a lover of pizza, I have tried many pizzerias in Rome, but Pizzeria Da Remo is one that stands out. Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, this pizzeria is a local institution that has been serving up delicious pizza since 1950.

The atmosphere is lively and bustling, with locals and tourists vying for a table. You may have to wait in line, but it's worth it for the experience and the pizza. The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for cheap meals in Rome.

The menu is simple, with classic Roman-style pizza options. The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. I highly recommend trying the margherita pizza, which is a classic and a favorite among locals.

In addition to pizza, Pizzeria Da Remo also offers supplì, a popular Roman street food. These fried rice balls are filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce, making for a tasty appetizer or snack.

Contact:

Address: Piazza di S Maria Liberatrice, 44, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 574 6270

14. Pulejo Rome

Pulejo is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the residential Prati district of Rome, just a short walk from the Vatican. As soon as I stepped inside, I was struck by the modern decor and hushed atmosphere. The restaurant has quickly become a favorite among foodies and locals alike, and it's easy to see why.

The menu at Pulejo is a celebration of Roman cuisine, with a focus on seafood, eel, and cured meats. The dishes are beautifully presented, and the flavors are out of this world. One of my favorite dishes was the spaghetti with sea urchin and bottarga. It was the perfect combination of salty and savory, and the handmade pasta was cooked to perfection.

But it's not just the food that makes Pulejo stand out. The service is impeccable, and the sommelier is incredibly knowledgeable. The wine list is extensive, and the sommelier was able to recommend the perfect wine to complement each course.

If you're looking for a truly special dining experience in Rome, Pulejo is definitely worth a visit. It's not the cheapest restaurant in the city, but the quality of the food and the service more than justifies the price.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Pulejo restaurant  is a popular spot, so it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance. And while there are plenty of tourist traps in Rome, Pulejo is definitely not one of them. This is one of the best places to eat in the city, and it's well worth the hype.

If you're a fan of Michelin-starred restaurants, be sure to also check out Ristorante Ad Hoc as well. And for a more casual dining experience, head to Pastificio Guerra or Ai Tre Scalini. Whatever your taste, Rome has something to offer every food lover.

Contact:

Address: Via dei Gracchi, 31, 00192 Roma RM, Italy

Phone: +39 06 8595 6532