Rome is a city that enchants with its history, art, and architecture—but also with its rich culinary heritage. If you're planning a trip to the Eternal City, you’re probably wondering: what should I eat in Rome? What are the must-try traditional Roman dishes? And where can you eat really well in the capital?
This article will take you on a journey through the authentic flavors of Rome, offering tips on what you absolutely must eat—from iconic pasta dishes to lesser-known specialties, street food, desserts, and local wines. Get your taste buds ready: you're about to discover the real, flavorful Rome.
Classic Roman Pasta Dishes You Need to Try
Roman cuisine is known for its simple yet bold pasta dishes, often made with just a few ingredients but full of character. Here are the unmissable classics:
Carbonara
The undisputed queen. Pasta (usually spaghetti or rigatoni), crispy guanciale, egg (no cream!), Pecorino Romano, and a generous grind of black pepper. It may seem easy, but it takes precision to get the perfect creamy texture.
Amatriciana
Originally from the town of Amatrice, it has become a Roman staple. Made with guanciale, pecorino, and tomato, typically served with bucatini or rigatoni. A perfect balance of sweet tomato and salty cheese.
Cacio e Pepe
Just three ingredients: pasta, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper. The secret to a perfect Cacio e Pepe is in the emulsification that turns it into a creamy masterpiece. A humble yet powerful dish.
Gricia
Known as the “eggless carbonara,” it’s made with guanciale, pecorino, and pepper. A great option if you’re not into eggs but still want something flavorful.
Traditional Roman Second Courses: Meats, Offal, and Passion
Rome is also known for its hearty meat-based dishes, often made with humble cuts cooked with care and skill.
Saltimbocca alla Romana
Thin slices of veal topped with prosciutto and sage, deglazed with white wine and pan-cooked. The name means “jumps in your mouth”—they're that good.
Abbacchio Scottadito
Grilled lamb chops, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Traditionally served piping hot—best eaten with your hands.
Trippa alla Romana
A true taste of authentic Rome: tripe cooked in a tomato sauce, topped with mint and grated Pecorino Romano. Not for everyone, but unforgettable for the brave.
Coda alla Vaccinara
Perhaps the boldest Roman dish in terms of flavor and texture. Oxtail braised for hours with tomato, celery, and spices until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Best enjoyed with bread for dipping.
Roman Side Dishes That Elevate the Meal
Roman cuisine isn’t just about mains—side dishes, often vegetable-based, play an essential role.
Carciofi alla Giudia
A Jewish-Roman specialty: whole artichokes deep-fried until they’re as crispy as chips. A simple yet flawless dish.
Carciofi alla Romana
Unlike the fried version, these are braised in oil, garlic, and mint. Tender, fragrant, and a perfect complement to any main.
Puntarelle in Anchovy Sauce
Puntarelle are shoots from catalogna chicory, thinly sliced and curled in ice water. Served raw with a dressing of anchovies, garlic, and vinegar—a bite of pure freshness and flavor.
Roman Street Food: Quick and Delicious Bites
Rome is also a haven for indulgent and satisfying street food. Here are some staples to try as you stroll through the city center:
Pinsa Romana
Crispy outside, soft inside, pinsa is one of the most beloved Roman street foods. Its ancient recipe—rediscovered in recent years—includes a mix of flours (wheat, rice, and soy), high hydration, and long fermentation, making it light and easy to digest. Topped with anything from the classic margherita to gourmet combos like mortadella and pistachio, or zucchini with squash blossoms, it’s a perfect snack any time of day.
Supplì
The Roman cousin of arancino: a deep-fried rice croquette filled with melty mozzarella. The classic is called “al telefono,” but nowadays you can find versions like cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and carbonara.
Trapizzino
A modern but now iconic invention: a triangle of pizza bianca stuffed with traditional dishes, from oxtail stew to eggplant parmigiana. A perfect way to sample Roman classics on the go.
Maritozzo with Whipped Cream
One of Rome’s most beloved desserts: a soft, sweet bun split open and filled with whipped cream. There are also savory versions now, but the original is a sugary delight.
Traditional Roman Desserts
After all that savory goodness, it’s time for dessert. And Rome delivers here too.
Ricotta and Sour Cherry Pie
From Jewish-Roman tradition, this tart features a shortcrust base, filled with sheep’s ricotta and topped with sour cherries. Soft, refreshing, perfectly balanced.
Pangiallo Romano
A festive dessert made with dried fruit, candied peel, honey, and chocolate. Ideal for those who enjoy bold, spiced flavors.
Sour Cherry Tart
Simple but irresistible: shortcrust pastry with sour cherry jam, often found in Rome’s historic bakeries.
Drinks and Wines to Pair With Your Meal
No Roman meal is complete without the perfect drink. Lazio produces excellent local wines that pair beautifully with traditional dishes.
White Wines from Lazio
Great with pasta and fried dishes. Top picks include:
- Frascati Superiore DOCG
- Malvasia Puntinata
- Bellone
Red Wines
Perfect with meats, gricia, or oxtail stew:
- Cesanese del Piglio DOCG
- Aleatico di Gradoli
- Lazio IGT Merlot
To end your meal in style, try a local Roman amaro or a glass of grappa from Lazio.
Where to Eat Traditional Roman Dishes
Once you know what to eat in Rome, the next step is figuring out where to eat well. Here are some ideas:
- Historic trattorias in Trastevere and Testaccio like Da Enzo, Felice a Testaccio, Checchino dal 1887
- Bakeries for a slice of pizza al taglio (Forno Campo de’ Fiori, Antico Forno Roscioli)
- Local markets like Campo de’ Fiori or Testaccio, for street food and local products
- Artisanal gelaterias and historic pastry shops, like Giolitti, Pompi, and Regoli
Discover Rome by Night with a Food Tour
If you’re not just wondering what to eat in Rome but also looking for a unique experience to savor the city, we’ve got the perfect idea: a panoramic night tour of Rome with food tasting.
Starting May 16th, 2025, hop aboard a vintage-style open-top bus and fall in love with the Eternal City under the stars. This non-stop nighttime tour will take you past Rome’s most iconic sights: the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, Castel Sant’Angelo, Villa Borghese, and more.
During the ride, enjoy a tasty break with a Pizza & Mortazza tasting, a street food staple of Roman cuisine, accompanied by beer or a soft drink, included in the tour.
Meeting point is at 7:15 PM at Terminal 1A on Viale Piazza dei Cinquecento (corner with Via Cavour). The tour departs at 7:30 PM and ends at 9:30 PM.
Don’t miss the chance to blend authentic flavors with breathtaking views: book your Rome by Night Tour online and experience the world’s most beautiful city… by night.
