Traveling to Rome is an unforgettable experience, and one of the most exciting parts is trying local cuisine that hasn’t changed in centuries. From modern interpretations of ancient dishes to traditional recipes passed down through family generations, it’s easier than ever to enjoy a true taste of Ancient Roman food right here in Europe!
However, choosing where you’ll dine can be challenging with so many excellent eateries throughout the city. That’s why we’ve curated this list of top restaurants for an authentic Ancient Roman meal – take your pick or try them all!
Taverna Giulia + Nonsolopasta.
Taverna Giulia and Nonsolopasta offer two of the best places in Rome to experience an authentic Ancient Roman meal. At Taverna Giulia, guests can indulge in traditional recipes passed down through generations, such as roasted pork served with rosemary potatoes and artichokes cooked in white wine.
Nonsolopasta serves up innovative dishes like tagliatelle with zucchini pesto and truffle oil or olive oil for a modern twist on classic flavors. Both restaurants are housed in beautiful historic buildings, featuring rustic decor and attentive service for an unforgettable dining experience.
If you want to enjoy a true taste from Ancient Rome without leaving Europe, either of these top Roman restaurants will not disappoint!
Hostaria Antica Roma.
If you’re looking for the best place to sample Ancient Roman cuisine, look no further than Hostaria Antica Roma. Located in the heart of Rome near Vatican City, this restaurant is renowned for its traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.
Their head chef takes pride in using only locally sourced produce to create mouth-watering dishes that will make your taste buds dance! From classic Roman pasta, such as Amatriciana or Carbonara, to warming soups like Minestrone di Verza, and delicious desserts like Tiramisu, you’ll find something to satisfy everyone’s cravings at Hostaria Antica Roma.
With excellent service and a cozy ambiance, it’s easy to see why this restaurant has been listed as one of the top places to experience an authentic Ancient Roman meal.
Seu Pizza Illuminati.
Seu Pizza Illuminati is a must-visit if you’re looking for an authentic Ancient Roman meal in the heart of Rome. Located in the vibrant Prati district, this family-owned traditional pizzeria has been serving delicious pizza since 1890 – and gaining quite a following!
Famous for their characteristic gold crusts that are crispy on the outside and light as air on the inside, Seu Pizza Illuminati has crafted dishes over many generations that will surely delight any traveler searching for a taste of Ancient Rome.
Choose from toppings like classic tomato sauce, sausage and peppers, blue cheese, or a unique Italian white truffle topping. Enjoy some freshly baked focaccia or a slice of their famed Nutella pizza to finish your meal.
Seu Pizza Illuminati offers diners an atmosphere that has remained unchanged for centuries, making it the perfect place to transport yourself back in time and experience Ancient Roman cuisine like never before.
Marigold.
Marigold is one of the top restaurants in Rome for an authentic Ancient Roman meal. Located near the Colosseum, this traditional restaurant has been serving traditional dishes from the region since its opening.
The menu includes classic Italian offerings, including pasta, pizzas, risottos, and more unique dishes such as rabbit stew and beef tagliata. All plates are prepared with fresh ingredients and homemade sauces, giving diners a taste of Ancient Rome.
Marigold is known for its extensive wine list featuring varieties from all over Italy. With attentive service and a warm atmosphere, Marigold will make your dining experience unforgettable.
La Tavernaccia.
La Tavernaccia is a traditional Roman restaurant offering an authentic Ancient Roman experience. Located in the city’s heart, it serves classic recipes inspired by ancient Roman cuisine made with fresh local ingredients that bring a unique flavor to every dish.
The menu features dishes like Pasta Carbonara, Pollo alla Romana, Biscotti di Ricotta, and other traditional Italian specialties. The warm and welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff ensure you get the best possible service. They also offer a range of gluten-free options for those with dietary requirements.
Suppose you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience to enjoy some true tastes of Rome’s past while enjoying modern interpretations of traditional dishes. In that case, La Tavernaccia is the place to go.
Roscioli.
Roscioli is a family-run restaurant located in the historical center of the eternal city Rome that specializes in ancient Roman cuisine. Established in 1824, they have served traditional recipes for over two centuries.
Roscioli’s menu features classic dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and flavors that have remained unchanged for generations. Their signature dish is the “Pasta all’Amatriciana,” a pasta dish featuring bacon and tomato sauce that dates back to the 1800s.
The atmosphere at Roscioli combines old-world charm with a modern twist – staff dressed in traditional attire, an outdoor terrace offering views of historic monuments, and a welcoming vibe make it one of the most sought-after restaurants in Rome.
From timeless classic roman dish to modern interpretations, Roscioli is the perfect place to experience a true taste of Ancient Rome. With the highest quality ingredients and friendly service, it’s no wonder their diners keep returning for more!
Altrove Ristorante.
Altrove Ristorante is one of the top restaurants in Rome for an authentic Ancient Roman meal. Located in the city’s heart, it’s a perfect spot to get an unforgettable taste of traditional roman cuisine. The menu features traditional dishes passed down through generations and handcrafted with a modern twist.
Each bite will transport you back in time from classic pasta dishes featuring homemade sauces to succulent seafood creations! And if you’re feeling adventurous, try some of their signature dishes like fresh octopus salad or white polenta tartare – you won’t regret it!
With friendly service and an inviting atmosphere, Altrove Ristorante will surely become one of your favorite dining places during your visit to Rome.
Coromandel.
If you’re looking for an authentic Ancient Roman experience, Coromandel is the place to go. This traditional trattoria is a family-run eatery that has been serving up classic Roman dishes since 1950.
The restaurant is in the heart of Rome and offers an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a cozy dinner or romantic night out.
The menu at Coromandel features all the Roman classics – from Spaghetti Carbonara to Saltimbocca alla Romana – crafted with fresh ingredients sourced from local markets. Additionally, they offer a selection of tasty wines that pair perfectly with your meal.
With its friendly service and classic Italian cuisine, Coromandel will surely provide an unforgettable dining experience. Whether visiting for a quick bite or looking for an elegant evening out, Coromandel will surely delight your taste buds and provide you with an authentic Ancient Roman experience.
Osteria Chiana.
Osteria Chiana is a top restaurant in Rome to experience an authentic Ancient Roman meal. The family-run eatery has been serving delicious dishes since the 1700s, and its menu features classic recipes passed down through generations.
From traditional pizza al Pomodoro to spaghetti alla carbonara, you’ll find timeless Italian flavors at this historic restaurant. And with its picturesque outdoor seating area overlooking the Pantheon, you can enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of Rome’s past and present!
Diners particularly rave about the homemade pasta dishes – linguine alle vongole and ravioli con funghi are particular favorites – and their selection of freshly caught seafood.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a cozy family meal, Osteria Chiana is perfect for an unforgettable evening of Ancient Roman cuisine.
Aperitivo Archeologico.
Aperitivo Archeologico is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic Ancient Roman meal. Located near the Colosseum in Rome, this charming restaurant offers modern interpretations of traditional Roman dishes to delight even the most discerning diner.
The menu features a selection of creative and delicious options – think freshly baked focaccia with garlic, smoked provola cheese, cured meats, and olives – that are sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Enjoy classic Roman dishes such as spaghetti alla carbonara or tagliatelle al ragu. If you’re in the mood for something truly unique, try their signature Archaeological Platter which includes a variety of small plates inspired by ancient recipes. To top it off, you can pair your meal with one of their delicious Italian wines to create the perfect evening.
With its sumptuous menu, cozy atmosphere, and convenient location, Aperitivo Archeologico is an absolute must-visit for a truly authentic Ancient Roman experience.
Meccanismo.
Meccanismo is one of the top restaurants in Rome for an authentic Ancient Roman meal. Located near the iconic Trevi Fountain, it’s the perfect place to experience the city’s culinary heritage.
The la carte menu features classic dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole and cacio e pepe, as well as modern interpretations of traditional recipes like risotto con porcini and melanzane alla parmigiana.
Meccanismo takes pride in sourcing only local ingredients from trusted suppliers, ensuring every dish has a distinctive flavor. The warm ambiance of exposed brick walls and wooden furniture makes this eatery ideal for a leisurely lunch or romantic dinner.
With its friendly staff, attentive service, and delicious food, Meccanismo is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking to sample the real taste of Ancient Rome. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian cuisine or want to try something new, you’ll be sure to find something special at Meccanismo.
Ristorante Moma.
Ristorante Moma is a top choice for an authentic Ancient Roman meal in Rome. Located in the city’s heart, this restaurant dates back centuries to when a local family established it. Here you’ll find traditional dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients and recipes passed down through generations.
From homemade pasta and freshly baked bread to slow-cooked stews like “Caccio e Pepe,” there’s something for everyone at Ristorante Moma. They also offer a wine bar with selection of wines from around Italy and beyond to complement your meal.
With its cozy atmosphere, helpful staff, and mouthwatering menu items, Ristorante Moma promises an unforgettable dining experience that transports you back to ancient Romans!
FAQs
What is authentic ancient Roman food?
Authentic ancient Roman food is a style of cuisine passed down through generations, unchanged for centuries. It’s renowned for using fresh local ingredients and flavors like garlic, olive oil, oregano, and basil. Dishes usually include pasta, roasted meats and vegetables, as well as some unusual recipes such as fried snails and oxtail stew.
What did the ancient Romans eat for dinner?
The ancient Romans typically ate three meals a day, with dinner being the largest. They usually had pasta, fish, vegetables, and fruits for dinner, along with olives and wine. Common dishes included lasagna-style layered pastas called “timballo,” as well as frittatas cooked in clay pots – both of which can still be found in modern Roman kitchens today!
How do I make a reservation at Roman restaurants?
Most Roman restaurants require reservations to be made in advance. You can easily make a reservation by either phoning the restaurant directly, or visiting their website and filling out an online form. When making your booking during the roman holiday, remember to ask about the menu and any special events happening on the day you plan to visit.
What are the prices like at restaurants in Rome?
The prices at restaurants in Rome can vary greatly, depending on the type of restaurant and what you order. Generally speaking, casual eateries are more budget-friendly than upscale dining options. Most restaurants will offer a range of dishes to suit any budget.
What are the hours of operation for restaurants in Rome?
Most restaurants in Rome are open from late morning to late evening, usually between 8am and 11pm. However, some eateries may have shorter hours or different opening times depending on the day – so make sure to check before you go!
Conclusion
Rome is a paradise of food and culture, offering some of the most delicious and unique dishes in the world. These thirteen restaurants serve not only delicious meals, but an experience beyond them. Whether you’re looking to explore the ancient dish from Roman times, or just looking for a taste of modern Italian cuisine, these places provide it all. Take a trip to one of these incredible restaurants and make your own memories there that will last a lifetime.