10 Drinks You Must Try When in Rome: A Guide to Local Beverages

When in Rome, do as the Romans do, and that includes enjoying the refreshing and delicious drinks that the city has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Roman refreshment or an iconic Italian beverage, Rome has something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Rome has a diverse range of drinks to offer, from traditional Roman refreshments to iconic Italian beverages.
• Espresso is a must-try drink in Rome and can be found in almost every café and bar in the city.
• Chinotto and pompelmo are traditional Roman refreshments that offer unique and refreshing flavors.

Iconic Italian Beverages

When in Rome, there are several iconic Italian beverages that one must try. From the quintessential Italian coffee to the world-renowned wine, Italy has a rich culture of beverages that reflect the country’s history and traditions.

1. Espresso: The Quintessential Italian Coffee

Of course, first on the list is the iconic Italian beverage – espresso. Rome is known for its coffee culture, and a shot of espresso is the perfect pick-me-up to start your day. You can find espresso in almost every café and bar in the city, and it’s a great way to experience the hustle and bustle of Roman life while enjoying a delicious and energizing drink.

Espresso is Italian and is a must-try when in Rome. It is a strong, concentrated coffee that is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans. The result is a rich, flavorful shot of coffee that is typically served in small cups.

In Italy, espresso is traditionally enjoyed standing at a bar, often accompanied by a quick conversation or a brief moment of relaxation. This social aspect is integral to the espresso experience, reflecting the Italian penchant for savoring the small moments of daily life. An espresso is typically consumed in one or two sips, offering a quick, intense burst of flavor that invigorates and energizes.

The Italian approach to espresso is characterized by its emphasis on quality and simplicity. The coffee beans used are usually a blend of Arabica and Robusta varieties, chosen for their balance of flavors and crema production. Italian baristas take great care in the preparation of espresso, ensuring that the grind size, water temperature, and brewing time are precisely controlled to achieve the perfect shot.

Drinking espresso in Italy is both a ritual and a pleasure, offering a moment of indulgence and a connection to the country’s deep coffee heritage. It encapsulates the Italian philosophy of enjoying the simple, everyday things in life with a sense of appreciation and care.

2. Cappuccino: The Perfect Balance of Espresso, Steamed Milk and Foam

Cappuccino is another popular Italian coffee that is made by combining espresso with steamed milk and foam. It is typically served in a larger cup than espresso and is a popular choice for breakfast. The perfect cappuccino has a balance of espresso, steamed milk, and foam and is a delicious and satisfying way to start the day.

In Italy, cappuccino is traditionally enjoyed in the morning, often paired with a pastry for breakfast. The Italian approach to cappuccino is marked by its simplicity and precision, with the proportions of espresso, steamed milk, and foam being carefully balanced to achieve the ideal taste and texture. The foam should be dense and creamy, with a glossy appearance, and the milk should be steamed to a velvety consistency, not too frothy or too watery.

The art of making a cappuccino is a point of pride in Italian coffee culture. Baristas often use it as a showcase for their skill, creating intricate designs on the foam known as latte art. These designs can range from simple heart shapes to elaborate patterns, reflecting both the barista’s technique and the aesthetic importance of the drink.

3. Wine: Exploring Local Varieties

Italy is renowned for its wine, and there are several local varieties that are a must-try when in Rome. Wine is an important part of Italian culture, and enjoying a glass of local wine with a meal is a time-honored tradition.

Italy’s climate and soil conditions vary dramatically from region to region, creating a wide array of wine styles and flavors. From the northern regions like Piemonte and Veneto to the southern regions such as Sicily and Puglia, each area brings its own distinct characteristics to its wines.

4. Aperitivo Culture: Prosecco and Aperol Spritz

Aperitivo culture is an important part of Italian social life, and enjoying a pre-dinner drink is a popular pastime. Prosecco, a sparkling wine from the Veneto region, is a popular choice for aperitivo, and is often served with a splash of Aperol and a slice of orange to create the refreshing and delicious Aperol Spritz. This light and bubbly cocktail is the perfect way to start an evening in Rome.

The classic preparation involves filling a glass with ice, adding a measure of Aperol, topping it with Prosecco, and finishing with a splash of soda water. The drink is typically garnished with a slice of orange, enhancing its visual appeal and adding a hint of citrus aroma.

Although the classic Aperol Spritz is beloved, bartenders and enthusiasts have experimented with variations. Some versions include flavored Prosecco or the addition of fresh fruit for a twist. However, the core elements of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water remain central to maintaining its classic character.

Traditional Roman Refreshments

5. Cacio e Pepe Inspired Drinks

Cacio e Pepe is a quintessential Roman pasta dish that is known for its simple yet flavorful taste. But did you know that this classic dish also inspired some refreshing drinks? One such drink is the Cacio e Pepe Martini, which combines vodka, pecorino cheese, and black pepper to create a unique and savory cocktail. Another popular Cacio e Pepe inspired drink is the Cacio e Pepe Spritz, which is a refreshing mix of Aperol, Prosecco, and a dash of black pepper.

The Cacio e Pepe Martini offers a unique sensory experience. The Pecorino Romano-infused vodka provides a savory, cheesy undertone, while the freshly cracked black pepper adds a spicy kick. The dry vermouth, if used, helps to balance the rich flavors and add complexity. The result is a cocktail that echoes the essence of the Cacio e Pepe pasta dish but in a sophisticated and unexpected form.

6. Limoncello: A Zesty Digestivo

To make Limoncello, lemon zest is steeped in alcohol for several weeks. This process extracts the essential oils and flavor compounds from the zest. After steeping, the mixture is strained to remove the zest and then combined with a sugar syrup. The resulting liqueur is allowed to rest for a few more weeks to blend the flavors before being bottled.

Limoncello is more than just a beverage – it’s a cultural emblem of Southern Italy. The liqueur is frequently homemade, with families passing down recipes and techniques through generations. It embodies the Italian tradition of creating homemade liqueurs and celebrating local ingredients.

7. Negroni: A Bitter-Sweet Pleasure

If you are a fan of bitter-sweet drinks, then the Negroni is a must-try. This classic cocktail is made by mixing gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in equal parts. It is garnished with a slice of orange and is usually served on the rocks. The Negroni is a popular drink in Rome and is often served as an aperitivo (a pre-meal drink to stimulate the appetite).

The Negroni has a storied history, with its origins dating back to early 20th-century Italy. It is said to have been created in Florence around 1919 when a bartender named Fosco Scarselli modified the classic Americano cocktail by substituting gin for soda water. This simple yet elegant cocktail quickly gained popularity and has since become a symbol of Italian aperitivo culture.

8. Sgroppino: A Light and Frothy Cocktail

Sgroppino is a light and frothy cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. This refreshing drink is made by mixing Prosecco, vodka, and lemon sorbet. It is usually served in a champagne flute and is garnished with a slice of lemon. Sgroppino is a popular drink in Rome and is often served as a palate cleanser between courses.

It’s particularly popular in Venice. Its frothy and bubbly nature makes it a delightful choice for special occasions, summer gatherings, or simply as a treat to enjoy on a sunny day.

Seasonal and Artisanal Finds

9. Summer Sips: Artichoke-Based Beverages

During the summer months, artichokes are in season and can be found in many Roman dishes, including drinks. One popular artichoke-based beverage is the Cynar Spritz, made with Cynar, a bitter liqueur made from artichokes and Prosecco. This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days and is a must-try for anyone visiting Rome during the summer season.

Another artichoke-based drink to try is the Carciofo alla Romana cocktail. This cocktail is made with artichoke liqueur, gin, and lemon juice, resulting in a tangy and slightly bitter taste that’s perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.

10. Craft Beer: Rome’s Burgeoning Scene

Rome’s craft beer scene has been growing in recent years, with many local breweries popping up throughout the city. These breweries offer a variety of unique beers, often made with local ingredients.

One brewery to check out is Birra del Borgo, located just outside of Rome. This brewery offers a variety of beers, including the Re Ale IPA, which has won several awards for its bold and hoppy flavor. Another brewery to try is Birrificio Italiano, which offers a variety of beers made with local ingredients, including the Tipopils, a light and refreshing Pilsner.

People Also Ask:

What are the traditional alcoholic beverages to sample in Rome?

When in Rome, there are a few traditional alcoholic beverages that visitors should try. These include the classic Italian aperitif, Aperol Spritz, which is made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. Another popular option is the Negroni, a cocktail made with gin, vermouth, and Campari. Visitors can also try the fragrant Limoncello, a traditional Italian lemon liqueur that is usually served as a digestif after a meal.

Can you recommend any iconic non-alcoholic beverages to try while in Rome?

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are plenty of options to choose from in Rome. Visitors can try the refreshing and bubbly San Pellegrino, a popular Italian mineral water, or the traditional Italian soda, Chinotto. Another must-try is the classic Italian hot chocolate, which is thick, creamy, and rich in flavor.

Which wines are a must-try during a visit to Rome?

Rome is known for its excellent wine, and there are several varieties that visitors should try during their stay. One of the most popular is Frascati, a white wine made from Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes that is produced in the nearby town of Frascati. Another great option is the full-bodied and robust Chianti, a red wine that is produced in the Tuscan region of Italy.

Where are the best spots in Rome to enjoy a local drink?

There are plenty of places in Rome where visitors can enjoy a local drink. Some of the best spots include the trendy bars in the Trastevere neighborhood, the historic cafes in the city center, and the rooftop bars with stunning views of the city.

What are some typical Roman cocktails that visitors should experience?

Visitors should try the classic cocktails that are popular in Rome, such as the Bellini, a cocktail made with peach puree and Prosecco, and the Martini, a cocktail made with gin and vermouth. Another must-try is the Sgroppino, a refreshing cocktail made with lemon sorbet, vodka, and Prosecco.

Aside from coffee, what are popular Italian drinks for non-coffee drinkers?

For non-coffee drinkers, there are several popular Italian drinks to try. One of the most popular is the Aperol Spritz, a refreshing cocktail made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. Another great option is the classic Italian hot chocolate, which is thick, creamy, and rich in flavor. Visitors can also try the traditional Italian soda, Chinotto, or the refreshing and bubbly San Pellegrino mineral water.