Where to Eat in Rome: Our Personal Guide to the City’s Best Local Eats

During our visits to Rome, we found ourselves constantly asking the same question: where to eat in Rome without ending up in a tourist trap?

With so many restaurants, eateries and pastry shops on every corner, it can be overwhelming—especially when you're craving something truly Roman.

Perfectly crisp fried artichoke enjoyed during a night food tour in Rome's Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' FioriGolden, crispy, and full of flavour—this fried artichoke was a highlight of our evening food tour through Rome’s Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' Fiori

How We Figured Out Where to Eat in Rome

So, we did what any true foodies would do—we asked locals, followed the smells, and wandered down side streets far from the crowds.

What we discovered was a list of incredible spots, from family-run trattorias to tiny bakeries that don’t even have a sign.

These are the places we found through firsthand experience — and the ones we keep coming back to every time we're in Rome.

Rome food tours: The best way to discover hidden food gems

On our foodie walks through Rome, we got to enjoy the most delicious Roman dishes—without the hassle of hunting down the best spots or wondering what to try.

We especially loved the Morning Foodie Walk in the Prati neighbourhood, with a visit to the lively Trionfale Market—a real taste of everyday Roman life.

Just as memorable was the Evening Food Tour through the Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' Fiori, where we experienced rich culinary traditions and age-old flavors.

These tours took us straight to the heart of Rome’s food culture—no planning, no guesswork, just pure enjoyment.


Where to eat near the Vatican -  Authentic Trattorias & Quick Bites

If you’re visiting the Vatican, skip the tourist traps and try these local favourites:

Alla Rampa dei Gracchi (Via dei Gracchi 90)

One of our favourite dining spots near the Vatican is Alla Rampa dei Gracchi.

It’s a cosy, welcoming place that serves up honest, traditional Italian food—no frills, just great flavours. We loved everything from their rich pasta carbonara to the comforting meat lasagne and perfectly layered Parmigiana di melanzane.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, their steak and saltimbocca alla romana are excellent choices. And don’t skip dessert—the tiramisù is as close to perfect as it gets.

They also have a great wine list, and the staff really make the experience: warm, professional, and always ready with a joke or a recommendation. After a long day exploring the Vatican, this spot feels like a well-earned treat.

Pinsa 'mpò (Via dei Gracchi 7)

Pinsa Romana with fresh toppings – a perfect light lunch while exploring Rome

We came across this charming little pinseria just a few steps from Piazza del Risorgimento and the Vatican.

They serve up delicious pinsas (a lighter, crispier cousin of pizza), with toppings that change daily. You get your own freshly baked pinsa in only 3-4 minutes (just pick the one you want).

Seating is limited, but they make it easy to take your meal to go with convenient packaging. We also tried their supplì, which was a tasty bonus! The service is friendly, efficient, and helpful.

Prices are super reasonable—usually between €6–8. You’ll find both meat and vegetarian options, and you can enjoy it all with a cold beer or soft drink.

While you're there, head to Via Cola di Rienzo (just a minute away) and visit Castroni — a paradise for foodies!

Bonci Pizzarium (Via della Meloria 43)

A slice of pizza al taglio from Pizzarium Bonci, topped with fresh ingredients on thick, airy dough

Bonci Pizzarium (Via della Meloria 43) is slightly hidden, set on a street behind the Vatican Museums — but it's absolutely worth the visit. The place is always packed, which is proof of its quality.

It’s been our favourite pizza al taglio spot in Rome ever since our friendly guide Raluca took us there on a tour.

The pizzas feature a thick, airy dough — crispy on the outside, soft on the inside — and are generously topped with creative, flavorful combinations. There’s no shortage of vegetarian options either. While prices are slightly higher than elsewhere in Rome, the quality makes it totally worth it. A slice here could easily make a light lunch.

We especially adore their pizza bianca stuffed with slices of freshly cut mortadella — warm, pillowy bread wrapped around that unmistakable, savoury aroma of fresh mortadella.

Hedera Gelateria (Borgo Pio 179)

where to eat in rome hedera gelateria

After exploring the Vatican, we recommend you stop by this charming place just a short stroll away. We sampled some of the best gelato in Rome here.

Their flavour selection is excellent, and we highly suggest the pistachio and dark chocolate combo. Besides gelato, don’t miss out on their authentic Sicilian cannoli or tiramisù. The service here is equally wonderful!


Where to eat near the Spanish Steps

Near the Spanish Steps, you’ll find a mix of charming trattorias, hidden wine bars, and classic Roman restaurants—perfect for a tasty break after shopping or sightseeing.

Ginger (Via Borgognona, 43-46)

If you're near the Spanish Steps and looking for something fresh and a bit lighter, we highly recommend Ginger, a stylish, health-focused spot on Via Borgognona.

It’s all about organic ingredients and vibrant flavours, perfect when you need a break from heavier Roman fare. From Laurina 33 you can easily reach this place.

We especially loved their octopus carpaccio with lime mayo, a refreshing palate cleanser, and the grilled fish with cherry tomatoes, olives, chard, and oregano—simple, clean, and delicious. Their sandwiches are also worth trying—flavourful, filling, and made with quality ingredients.

Ginger is popular with both locals and tourists, so don’t be surprised if there’s a line—but trust us, it’s worth the wait. You'll find them also on other locations - near the Pantheon and on Via del Corso 173.

Where to eat near Campo de' Fiori

I Dolci di Nonna Vincenza (Via dell'Arco del Monte, 98)

We absolutely adored the smooth, flavorful cream filling Nonna Vincenza’s cannoli

I Dolci di Nonna Vincenza is a must-visit if you’re exploring the area around Campo de’ Fiori. This charming pasticceria siciliana is just a short walk away and offers a perfect stop for a sweet Italian breakfast or a mid-day treat.

The shop is divided into two cosy sections: one side features a beautiful display of traditional Sicilian pastries, while the other has inviting tables surrounded by shelves of foodie gifts — a great place to sit down and soak in the atmosphere.

We especially loved their cannoli, which come in two sizes and are freshly filled on the spot. But don't stop there — they offer a wide range of authentic Sicilian sweets like Minne di Sant'Agata, cassate, cornetti, and frutta martorana (those beautiful marzipan fruits).

Everything was delicious, and surprisingly affordable, which made it even harder to resist trying more.

Before leaving, we always grab some edible souvenirs — croccanti, amaretti cookies, or a jar of pistachio spread make perfect gifts.

Dining Near Via Veneto and Villa Borghese

Around Via Veneto and Villa Borghese, you'll find plenty of great places to eat—from cozy trattorias to stylish cafés—perfect for a relaxed meal or aperitivo after a walk through the park.

Al Forno della Soffitta (Via Piave 62)

We discovered this cosy pizzeria/restaurant, not too far from Piazza Fiume and Villa Borghesse, when staying at Magica Luna Hotel. It's a hidden gem!

We tried here pizzas with a perfect crispy crust and soft interior. They are huge, more than enough for full lunch or dinner. They serve also various pastas, risottos, salads, hand-cut hams (served with warm homemade bread), desserts like tiramisù. 

The prices are reasonable, and the staff is extremely attentive and easy to communicate with. We'll be back here for sure! A restaurant not to be missed if you like real Italian cuisine 🇮🇹.

Colline Emiliane (Via degli Avignonesi, 22)

Tucked between the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Barberini, Colline Emiliane showcases the rich culinary heritage of Emilia-Romagna — think delicate tortellini in brodo, handmade tagliatelle alla bolognese, and melt-in-your-mouth Culatello ham.

The food here is traditional Italian at its finest: lovingly prepared and bursting with flavour.

We’ve heard nothing but praise for this place, but unfortunately, we still haven’t had the chance to visit — it was closed around the holiday season when we tried to go. It’s definitely on our dining bucket list for Rome.

Faro - Caffè Specialty (Via Piave 55)

We found this spot with a cosy vibe after a nice stroll from the elegant Galleria Borghese. It’s perfect for a cappuccino and cornetto (the pastries are irresistibly fresh and yummy). Their maritozzi are so soft and tasty!

There's a variety of coffee options to choose from. The friendly and welcoming team here makes this spot a fantastic choice for breakfast or a sweet treat after lunch or dinner. Plus, the prices are reasonable!

Best Places to Eat in Testaccio: Authentic Roman Cuisine

Flavio al Velavevodetto (Via di Monte Testaccio, 97)

Not far from the Testaccio market and nestled into the slope of Monte Testaccio — the hill made from millions of ancient Roman terracotta shards — Flavio al Velavevodetto draws a mostly local crowd.

They come for beloved Roman staples like fried meatballs, carciofi alla romana, and a standout cacio e pepe. The service tends to be relaxed, so embrace the slow pace and settle in for an unhurried meal.

For dessert, don’t miss the handmade ciambelle al vino — crisp little wine cookies traditionally dipped in red. Be sure to reserve ahead by phone or email to avoid missing out.

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