Where to Eat in Rome (by neighborhood)

A cozy, family-run restaurant hidden behind the Roman Forum. They serve traditional Roman dishes, but their menu always features several seasonal specials as well as more creative interpretations of classic dishes. Save room for dessert!

Step back in time with this classic spot. Their Amatriciana is, of course, delicious, but they also offer seafood dishes that should not be overlooked. When the season is right, they serve dishes with Porcini mushrooms and truffles. Don’t miss the poached pear with chocolate.

Located in Ostiense, a modern residential neighborhood on the edge of Testaccio that has quickly become known to have some of the best food in the city. The menu includes all the classics as well as others you might not have heard of, like their version of Rigatoni alla Pajata (veal intestines) with the addition of Colatura di Alici (the Italian version of fish sauce). Very prepared staff, natural wines available, and delicious desserts. Highly recommended.

Eating here is somewhat of a history lesson in traditional Roman cuisine. Expect seasonal vegetable sides, offal (many well-known Roman offal dishes come from this neighborhood), and old-fashioned dishes like Minestra di Broccoli e Arzilla.

Finding a good restaurant around the Trevi fountain is impossible, so ignore all the checkered tablecloths and head here directly. This NYC/Paris-inspired bistro makes some of the best carbonara in Rome (the chef, Nabil Hadj Hassen, cooked the famous carbonara at Roscioli for nearly 18 years). If you are not in the mood for pasta, they also have delicious mozzarella di bufala, salads, and one of the best burgers in town.

One of the last traditional and non-touristy spots in the Jewish quarter. If in season (early winter to mid-spring), try the carciofo alla giudia (fried artichoke) and puntarelle (bitter chicory salad with an anchovy/garlic dressing). Their tagliolini al limone (fresh pasta with a creamy lemon sauce) are also fantastic. End with a slice of their torta di ricotta e visciole (ricotta and sour cherry tart).

One of the last truly authentic, old-fashioned trattorias still holding strong in Trastevere, Checco er Carettiere has been serving Roman specialties since 1935. Tucked away in the neighborhood’s narrow alleys, it is now run by Stefania, the third generation at the helm. The dining room is cozy, the service impeccable, and the menu filled with Roman classics like Carbonara, Fiori di Zucca ripieni, and Carciofi alla Romana when in season.

Definitely out of the main tourist track, Antico Falcone is a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Roman dishes. Their Carbonara is delicious, but if you are feeling adventurous, try their Rigatoni alla Pajata: a very traditional Roman pasta dish made with the intestines of a suckling calf cooked in tomato sauce (I know it sounds weird, but it’s so good, trust us!). On Thursdays, do not miss out on their gnocchi, and if the weather is nice, make sure to reserve a table outside.

The area around Villa Borghese and Via Veneto is, unfortunately, in desperate need of great restaurants (it’s mostly hotels and offices). However, there is one restaurant that locals have loved for many years, and since it is on a smaller road, it has a sort of ‘hidden’ feel, which allows it to maintain its charm. Il Localino serves some of the freshest seafood in the city. The menu is handwritten daily on a blackboard because it changes daily based on what’s available at the fish market.

It might seem far, but there is no better place to get a true Roman experience in a very ‘real’ residential neighborhood in Rome. Trecca is part of the ‘new wave’ of Roman trattorias, which serves delicious classics with a focus on high-quality and seasonal ingredients. You will find staples of Roman cuisine, which includes different cuts of offal and a long list of natural wines. This place is popular, so make sure to book in advance!