Rome, the Eternal City, is a paradise for food lovers. From rich, creamy pasta dishes to crispy street food delights, the culinary scene in Rome offers an array of flavors that promise to tantalize your taste buds. In this guide, we’ll explore the top spots for traditional Roman dishes like pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì, ensuring you experience the best of Roman cuisine.
1. Must-Try Traditional Roman Dishes
1.1 Pasta Carbonara A classic Roman dish, pasta carbonara is made with eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper. The result is a creamy, savory pasta that’s impossible to resist.
1.2 Cacio e Pepe Literally translating to “cheese and pepper,” cacio e pepe is a simple yet flavorful dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper, tossed with spaghetti or tonnarelli pasta.
1.3 Supplì These delicious deep-fried rice balls are stuffed with mozzarella cheese and often include a savory meat sauce. Supplì are the perfect street food snack, crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
1.4 Lasagna It’s a must have in Rome, lasagna is a layered dish of thin sheets of pasta, cheese and slow cooked meat sauce. This was one of the best dishes in Rome.
2. Top Spots for Traditional Roman Dishes
2.1 Enoteca Trastevere
Enoteca Trastevere is a beloved Roman eatery located in the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Known for its authentic and hearty Roman dishes, this trattoria offers some of the best lasagna and pasta dishes in the city. The intimate, rustic ambiance adds to the experience, making it a must-visit.
2.2 Trattoria Luzzi
This cute trattoria was a delicious and unique dining experience in the heart of Rome by the Colosseum. Their appetizers were also delicious, we tried the Prosciutto e melone. Their cacio e pepe is legendary, featuring perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, peppery sauce.
2.3 Tre Scalini in Piazza Navona
Located in Piazza Navona, this popular spot is renowned for its Roman Dishes. The Pasta and Pizza dishes were amazing and cooked to perfection. It was a lively experience to eat in the heart of the Piazza.
3. Exploring Rome’s Food Markets
3.1 Campo de’ Fiori Market Piazza Campo de’ Fiori
One of Rome’s oldest and most famous markets, Campo de’ Fiori is a vibrant hub of activity. Here, you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and more. It’s also a great spot to try some local street food and pick up ingredients for a picnic.
3.2 Mercato Testaccio
For an authentic Roman market experience, head to Mercato Testaccio. This bustling market offers a wide variety of food stalls, selling everything from fresh seafood to handmade pasta. Be sure to stop by Mordi e Vai for their famous panino con l’allesso (beef sandwich) and grab a supplì from one of the many vendors.
4. Insider Tips for Foodies
4.1 Eat Like a Local To truly experience Roman cuisine, venture away from the main tourist areas and explore neighborhoods like Trastevere, Testaccio, and Monti. These areas are home to some of the city’s best eateries and offer a more authentic dining experience.
4.2 Timing is Everything Romans typically eat lunch between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm and dinner from 8:00 pm onwards. Plan your meals accordingly to avoid disappointment, as many traditional restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
4.3 Learn Some Italian While many Romans speak English, knowing a few Italian phrases can enhance your dining experience. Simple phrases like “Per favore” (please), “Grazie” (thank you), and “Il conto, per favore” (the check, please) can go a long way.
4.4 Embrace the Aperitivo The Italian tradition of aperitivo, similar to happy hour, is a great way to sample small bites and enjoy a pre-dinner drink. Head to a local bar between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm to enjoy aperitivo, which often includes a buffet of snacks with your drink.
Rome’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions. From indulging in creamy pasta carbonara at a charming trattoria to savoring crispy supplì from a street food stall, each bite tells a story of the city’s rich history and culture. So, pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the heart of Rome. Buon appetito!
