10 Best Food Experiences in Rome: From Budget Meals to Three Michelin Stars

Rome, a city where ancient history meets vibrant modernity, is also a haven for food lovers. Many people forget that besides ancient monuments there is a great quality in Italian cuisine in Rome. The city’s culinary scene is a rich mosaic of flavors, traditions, and innovations, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or a curious traveler, exploring Rome’s food scene offers an unforgettable journey. So get ready to savor the best Rome has to offer.

Key Takeaways

• Roscioli: Renowned for its exceptional carbonara and high-quality deli items. The main dishes cost around €15-€20.
• Trattoria Da Enzo al 29: Offers authentic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe. Meals typically range from €20-€30.
• Mercato Centrale: A vibrant market with diverse Italian foods. Expect to spend €10-€25 for a variety of items. The pizza by Gabriele Bonci is a must-try.
• La Pergola: Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offering a luxurious tasting menu starting at €250. Book well in advance.
• Pizzeria La Montecarlo: Casual pizzeria with excellent Roman-style pizza. Pizzas cost between €8-€15.
• Gelateria del Teatro: Artisanal gelato with unique flavors. Small cups or cones cost around €4. Pistachio and honey are top picks.
• Antica Pesa: Historic Trastevere restaurant known for refined Roman cuisine. Meals range from €40-€70.
• Eataly Rome: A marketplace with a variety of dining options. Meals cost between €10-€30. Fresh pasta and sandwiches are the highlights.
• Supplizio: Specializes in supplì (Roman rice balls). Each costs around €3-€4, with a meal costing €10-€15.
• Hostaria Romana: Classic Roman restaurant near the Spanish Steps. Meals typically cost €30-€50.

1. Roscioli: The Deli that Doubles as a Gastronomic Haven

Located near Campo de Fiori, Roscioli is a culinary institution that blends a traditional deli, bakery, and restaurant into one exceptional dining experience. This family-owned business, established in 1824, is celebrated for its commitment to high-quality ingredients and time-honored recipes.

Experience: Roscioli is famous for its rich carbonara – a creamy pasta dish made with egg, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. The atmosphere is a mix of bustling market energy and refined dining. The sheer depth of flavor in their dishes and the impeccable quality of their cured meats and cheeses is what draws so many people.

Fees & Prices: Expect to pay around €15-€20 for a main dish. The carbonara, a standout item on the menu, costs approximately €18. An appetizer or dessert adds another €10-€15 to your bill.

Suggestion: Don’t miss the Supplì, traditional Roman rice balls stuffed with mozzarella and meat sauce. They offer a perfect prelude to your meal or a delicious snack on their own.

2. Trattoria Da Enzo al 29: A Taste of Roman Tradition

Situated in the charming Trastevere neighborhood, Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 is a beloved diner that captures the essence of Roman home cooking. Opened in 1935, it offers an authentic experience in a cozy, unpretentious setting.

Experience: The cacio e pepe, pasta with cheese and pepper, and amatriciana, pasta with tomato and pancetta, are some of the most popular dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with an old-world charm that enhances the dining experience.

Fees & Prices: A meal at Da Enzo generally costs between €20-€30 per person. The cacio e pepe is priced around €12, making it a reasonably affordable yet flavorful option.

Suggestion: Arrive early or make a reservation well in advance. The trattoria is popular among both locals and tourists, and seating can be limited.

3. Mercato Centrale: A Culinary Marketplace

Located in the Ostiense district, Mercato Centrale is a vibrant food market housed in a former train station. It offers a dynamic selection of Italian dishes, from fresh pasta to gourmet pastries, all under one roof.

Experience: The market buzzes with activity, featuring stalls from some of Rome’s most renowned food vendors. Visitors can sample a range of items, from artisanal cheeses to delectable pastries. The atmosphere is lively, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the diverse offerings.

Fees & Prices: Prices vary depending on what you sample, with a typical meal ranging from €10 to €25. Individual items like pizza slices or sandwiches usually cost between €5 and €10.

Suggestion: Don’t miss the pizza by Gabriele Bonci, known for its inventive toppings and perfectly crispy crust. The freshly made pasta from La Pasta è Servita is also a must-try.

4. La Pergola: A Three-Michelin-Star Experience

La Pergola, located in the Rome Cavalieri Hotel, is the city’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant. It offers a luxurious dining experience with breathtaking views of Rome and a menu that pushes the boundaries of Italian cuisine.

Experience: Diners are treated to an opulent ambiance and a tasting menu that showcases creative and refined dishes. The service is top-notch, and each course is crafted with precision and artistry. The wine list is extensive, featuring both Italian and international selections.

Fees & Prices: The tasting menu starts at approximately €250 per person, with wine pairings available for an additional cost. It’s a high-end experience that offers exceptional value for those looking to indulge.

Suggestion: The tasting menu is an investment but well worth it for an unforgettable culinary journey. Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance due to high demand.

5. Pizzeria La Montecarlo: Classic Roman Pizza

Located near Piazza Navona, Pizzeria La Montecarlo is a staple in the Roman pizza scene. Known for its traditional Roman-style pizza, it offers a casual and laid-back dining experience.

Experience: The thin, crispy crust and the generous toppings make La Montecarlo’s pizzas stand out. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere and friendly service add to its appeal.

Fees & Prices: Pizzas range from €8 to €15, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal. A full meal, including drinks and possibly a dessert, typically costs around €20-€30 per person.

Suggestion: Try the Margherita for a classic experience or the Diavola if you enjoy a bit of spice. Pair your pizza with a glass of local wine for a complete meal.

6. Gelateria del Teatro: Artisanal Gelato Excellence

Gelateria del Teatro, located near Piazza Navona, is renowned for its artisanal gelato made from high-quality, natural ingredients. The gelateria has gained a loyal following for its innovative flavors and creamy textures.

Experience: The gelato here is a sensory delight, with unique flavors such as rosemary and honey or lavender and white chocolate. The gelateria’s commitment to quality is evident in every scoop, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.

Fees & Prices: A small cup or cone costs around €4, with larger sizes available for a higher price. You can also choose from a range of flavor combinations to suit your taste.

Suggestion: Try the pistachio and honey flavors – they consistently receive high praise from both critics and patrons. Consider sampling a few flavors before making your final choice.

7. Antica Pesa: A Historic Culinary Gem

Antica Pesa, located in the Trastevere district, is a historic restaurant that has been serving Roman cuisine since 1922. The restaurant combines traditional recipes with a refined dining experience.

Experience: The elegant ambiance and the sophisticated presentation of classic Roman dishes are what people can expect. The service is attentive, and the menu features a range of options from hearty pasta dishes to refined meat courses.

Fees & Prices: Expect to spend between €40 and €70 per person, depending on your choice of dishes and wine. The tasting menu offers a comprehensive view of their culinary style, often costing more.

Suggestion: Opt for the tasting menu to experience a curated selection of their best dishes. The Roman-style artichokes and saltimbocca are particularly recommended.

8. Eataly Rome: A Food Lover’s Wonderland

Eataly, located in the Ostiense district, is a large marketplace that combines a grocery store with multiple dining options. It offers a wide variety of Italian foods and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Experience: The market’s diverse offerings include fresh pasta, gourmet sandwiches, and delicious desserts. The bustling atmosphere and the range of food counters make it a great spot to explore and sample different items.

Fees & Prices: Meals at Eataly range from €10 to €30, depending on what you choose. Individual items like sandwiches or pasta dishes usually cost between €8 and €15.

Suggestion: Try the fresh pasta from La Pasta Fresca or a gourmet sandwich from the Panino al Prosciutto counter. The gelato and pastries are also worth sampling.

9. Supplizio: The Supplì Specialist

Supplizio, located in the heart of Rome, specializes in supplì – traditional Roman rice balls that are a popular street food. The eatery is known for its high-quality, flavorful versions of this classic snack.

Experience: The crispiness of the exterior and the creamy, flavorful filling of each supplì is sensational. The menu features a variety of options, including traditional and innovative flavors.

Fees & Prices: A single supplì costs around €3-€4. A meal with several pieces and a drink typically costs between €10 and €15.

Suggestion: Sample a variety of supplì to experience different fillings and flavors. The classic ragu and mozzarella versions are particularly popular.

10. Hostaria Romana: Classic Roman Fare

Hostaria Romana, situated near the Spanish Steps, offers a classic Roman dining experience with a focus on traditional dishes and high-quality ingredients. The restaurant has a reputation for its warm hospitality and authentic cuisine.

Experience: The hearty, well-prepared dishes and the welcoming atmosphere are what to be expected. The menu features a range of traditional Roman specialties, from pasta dishes to meat courses.

Fees & Prices: Main courses at Hostaria Romana range from €15 to €25. A full meal, including starters and dessert, generally costs around €30-€50 per person.

Suggestion: The Roman-style artichokes and the saltimbocca are highly recommended. Pair your meal with a local wine for an enhanced experience.

A Taste of Italy

Rome’s food scene offers a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary experiences, each with its unique charm. From high-end dining to casual street food, the city caters to every palate and budget. These ten food experiences represent just a slice of Rome’s rich culinary landscape. Whether you’re savoring a Michelin-starred meal or enjoying a simple plate of pasta, you’re sure to have an unforgettable gastronomic adventure in the Eternal City. Buon appetito!

People Also Ask:

Are Rome food tours worth it?

If you’re a food lover and eager to learn about Rome’s rich culinary heritage, a food tour is definitely a worthwhile activity. Read about our Roman culinary experience options to find a tour that aligns with your interests and preferences.

Is Rome a good food city?

Italy as a whole is obviously known for its excellent food, but Roman food seems to be an overall favorite of visitors to the country, as evidenced by the fact that it’s been crowned one of the world’s top food cities by both TripAdvisor and TasteAtlas in the last couple of years.

What is the best region to eat in Rome?

Although all areas of the city are full of restaurants and takeaways, some of the best places to eat out in Rome are the streets surrounding the Trastevere, which is packed with traditional Italian restaurants, or Piazza Navona, Campo dei Fiori, or the Pantheon.

How expensive is Rome to eat and drink?

Conclusion. As you can see, the average cost of food in Rome per day can vary greatly depending on your choices and preferences. However, as a general rule of thumb, you can expect to spend around €30-40 per person per day on food in Rome, Italy. This budget will cover three meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

What are dishes Rome is famous for?

Pasta and pizza are classic choices, but Roman cuisine also understands the satisfaction of crispy roast meat and the appeal of a rich stew. This is food to be eaten slowly and savored, preferably with a few glasses of good wine.