Italy is on the Mt Olympus of global food destinations, and each region within the country has its own delectable specialties. In Rome, you’ll find everything from world-class coffee to pizza by the slice, along with the best ‘cacio e pepe’ around. Check out our list below for everything you should try on your trip—and where to find it.
## A Roman Culinary Journey: Savoring the Flavors of the Eternal City
Rome, a city steeped in history, art, and culture, also boasts a vibrant culinary scene that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. From the first sip of espresso in the morning to the last bite of tiramisu at night, Rome offers a gastronomic adventure that is as rich and rewarding as its historical landmarks. Prepare to embark on a journey of flavors, textures, and aromas as we explore some of the must-try culinary delights of Rome and the best places to savor them.
## Espresso & Maritozzo: A Roman Morning Ritual
The day in Rome begins with espresso. This is more than just a caffeine fix; it’s a cultural ritual, a social lubricant, and a jolt of energy all rolled into one tiny cup. The standard order is a shot of straight espresso, a potent brew that will awaken your senses. However, the Roman coffee culture is diverse and welcoming. You can opt for a creamy cappuccino, a latte with its generous serving of milk, or a perfectly balanced macchiato. For those needing an extra boost, order a *doppio* – a double shot of espresso.
To truly experience a Roman breakfast, pair your coffee with a *maritozzo*. This sweet bun, generously filled with whipped cream, is a delightful indulgence. The history of the *maritozzo* stretches back to ancient times, and it’s easy to see why this treat has endured through the centuries. Its decadent sweetness is indeed fit for an emperor, making it the perfect start to your day in Rome. Imagine biting into the soft, slightly sweet bread, the airy whipped cream melting in your mouth as you sip your strong, bitter espresso. The combination is a symphony of flavors and textures, a truly Roman experience.
### Where to Experience the Ritual
The search for the perfect espresso in Rome is a journey in itself. Fortunately, the city is brimming with cafes, each with its own unique charm and brewing style. Finding a bad espresso is a rare occurrence, as every self-respecting cafe owner takes pride in their coffee.
If you are visiting the iconic **Parthenon**, brace yourself for a possible queue and head to **La Casa del Caffe Tazza d Oro**. This institution is a popular spot, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Despite its popularity, **La Casa del Caffe Tazza d Oro** consistently delivers an exceptional cup of coffee. The aroma alone is worth the wait, and the taste will transport you to coffee heaven.
For a truly authentic experience, take a short walk from the **Trastevere** railway station to the quaint breakfast bar, **Il Maritozzaro**. This hidden gem is a local favorite, known for its freshly baked *maritozzi*. Arrive early, and you might be lucky enough to snag a *maritozzo* straight from the oven. This gastronomic experience is akin to culinary enlightenment, a perfect example of simple ingredients combined to create something truly extraordinary. The warm, sweet bun, filled with fresh cream, is the perfect complement to a strong espresso, setting the stage for a day of exploration in the Eternal City.
## Italian Cheeses & Cured Meats: A Picnic in Paradise
When the Roman weather is at its finest, and the sun casts a golden glow over the city, consider a delightful picnic. To prepare, venture into a *formaggeria* (cheese shop), a *salumeria* (deli), or a *prosciutteria* (ham shop). Here, you’ll discover a treasure trove of Italian cheeses and cured meats, perfect for a memorable outdoor feast.
Think prosciutto, that delicate, thinly sliced ham that melts in your mouth. Imagine the savory flavor of salami, with its various spices and textures. And don’t forget mortadella, a large Italian sausage studded with pistachios. These are the cold cuts of Italy, each with its own unique character and flavor profile. Many of the best Roman purveyors of these meat-centric delights are family-run businesses, some with histories stretching back over a century. These establishments are not just shops; they are keepers of tradition, preserving the art of curing meats and aging cheeses.
### Where to Assemble Your Picnic Basket
For an unparalleled selection of cured meats, pay a visit to **Salumeria Volpetti**, located in the vibrant **Testaccio** district in Central Rome. This is a true carnivore’s paradise, offering a wide array of options beyond the usual salami and sausages. Sample Prosciutto Cinta Senese, a ham made from a specific breed of pig raised in **Siena**. Explore the delights of Ibérico ham, known for its rich, nutty flavor. Indulge in Capocollo, a cured meat from the neck muscle, or try the flavorful pork cheek and crispy bacon.
**Salumeria Volpetti** is more than just a meat shop; it’s a culinary emporium. Here you can also find artisanal olive oils, aged vinegar, local honey, dried mushrooms, and other sundries to complete your picnic.
And what about cheese? No picnic is complete without a selection of delectable cheeses. Head to **Antica Caciara Trasteverina**, a family-run deli and cheese shop nestled in the heart of the **Trastevere** neighborhood. The selection here is staggering, with cheeses hailing from different regions of Italy. You may not recognize half the names adorning the massive wedges of pressed milk curds on display, but don’t be intimidated. Ask for recommendations and sample a few varieties to find your favorites. Be sure to try the decadent *burrata*, a mozzarella and cream hybrid that is unbelievably rich and creamy. Or opt for *pecorino di fossa*, a cheese with a delightfully strong flavor that is the result of being aged in underground caves and pits. The earthy notes and unique aroma of *pecorino di fossa* will transport you to the rolling hills of the Italian countryside.
## Pizza by the Slice: A Roman Fast Food Adventure
Pizza is an integral part of Italian cuisine. While **Naples** may lay claim to being the birthplace of pizza, Rome has its own distinct style and traditions.
Beyond the circular Pizza alla Romana, you’ll find *pizza al taglio* (pizza by the slice) throughout the city. These square, oval, or even tongue-shaped slices may differ from the triangular slices you’re used to, but the underlying purpose remains the same: it’s designed to be picked up quickly and eaten on the go. Think of it as the quintessential Roman fast food. These slices are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal while exploring the city’s many sights. Be sure to try pizza topped with Rome’s unique ingredients, such as potatoes or *flor di zucca* (zucchini flower). The combination of crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and the convenience of a slice makes pizza al taglio a must-try Roman culinary experience.
### Where to Grab a Slice
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty way to fuel your city sightseeing adventure, duck into one of Rome’s many *fornos* (a pizzeria and bakery hybrid). These establishments offer a variety of freshly baked pizzas by the slice, perfect for a grab-and-go meal.
For specific recommendations, head to **Casa Manco**, located in the bustling **Testaccio Market**. This pizza joint is known for its creative toppings and high-quality ingredients.
For one of the most influential pizza experiences in all of Rome, venture to **Pizzarium**. This popular spot is famous for its crowd-pleasing square slices topped with simple, quality ingredients such as mozzarella, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. Arrive during lunchtime and pair your slice with a *suppli’*, a fried rice ball filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
For a taste of heavenly simplicity, try the pizza bianca (white pie) at **Antico Forno Roscioli**. This pizza is dressed with nothing more than olive oil and salt, allowing the quality of the dough and the baking process to shine.
To experience a modern twist on Roman pizza, dine at **Trapizzino Trastevere**. In 2009, Stefano Callegari created the *trapizzino*, a triangular slice of pizza bianca cut open and filled with savory fillings such as chicken cacciatore or eggplant parmesan. Think of it as Italy’s answer to Japan’s temaki roll, a portable and flavorful culinary innovation.
## Cacio e Pepe: A Roman Pasta Masterpiece
“Pasta” encompasses a vast array of incredible dishes. Rome offers its own unique takes on this Italian staple, embodying the Italian ethos of using quality ingredients prepared simply to achieve culinary perfection.
A prime example is *cacio e pepe*, which translates literally to “cheese and pepper.” This deceptively simple dish is made with just four ingredients: pasta water, black pepper, Parmigiano Reggiano, and pecorino cheeses. The result is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish with a delightful kick. The key to a great *cacio e pepe* lies in the technique, ensuring that the cheese melts into a smooth, emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta. Pair this dish with a crisp Sicilian Chardonnay for a truly memorable meal.
A variation on this classic is *bucatini all’amatriciana*. This dish doubles down on the spice factor, adding dried chiles to the black pepper. Cured pork and tomatoes round out the sauce, creating a rich and flavorful pasta dish. Pair *bucatini all’amatriciana* with a dark and tannic Sangiovese red wine to complement the spice and richness of the sauce.
### Where to Savor These Pasta Delights
For a truly great and traditional *cacio e pepe*, head to **Da Felice** in the **Testaccio** neighborhood. This restaurant has been serving up classic Italian staples since 1936, and their *cacio e pepe* is a must-try. As an added bonus, the waiters toss the pasta and sauce tableside, creating a memorable dining experience.
For *bucatini all’amatriciana*, visit **Trattoria Antonio Bassetti**, located near **Piazza Navona**. This humble, family-run trattoria has been serving its delicious sauce for three generations. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the food is authentic and delicious.
## Gelato: A Sweet Roman Indulgence
Italian gelato is all about one thing: the sheer variety of flavors. No matter your sweet tooth preference, you’re sure to find a flavor that you’ll love. Rome is brimming with gelaterias, offering everything from traditional flavors to creative and innovative combinations.
### Where to Find Gelato Nirvana
For an example of an envelope-pushing gelateria, visit **Fatamorgana**. Here, you’ll discover forward-thinking flavors like chocolate & tobacco, yogurt-cumin, baklava, basil-walnut-honey, rose petal & lavender, and more. The owner also has celiac disease, making this joint officially gluten-free. **Fatamorgana** has several locations across Rome, but the most atmospheric is in the ancient **Monti** neighborhood, right on a *piazza*.
For a truly homemade gelato experience in a romantic setting, head to **Gelateria del Teatro**, situated on the ivy-clad **Via dei Coronari**. Through a window, you can watch the artisans at work as they prepare gelato using only the freshest, regionally sourced ingredients. This includes Sicilian pistachios, lemons from the **Amalfi Coast**, and licorice from **Calabria**. Even their espresso gelato is fresh-brewed. Go for decadent flavors like raspberry sage and lavender lemon, or indulge in the *fondente al Nero d’Avola* (dark chocolate and red wine from Sicily).
For a time-tested gelato experience, visit **Palazzo del Freddo Giovanni Fassi**, located near the **Termini Train Station**. This cavernous Mecca for gelato has been in business since 1880 and is now operated by the great-grandson of the original founder. The place is always bustling with locals eager to satisfy their sweet tooth.
Remember that authentic Italian gelato is a model of artisanal pride and craftsmanship, with no artificial colors or flavorings. A local tip says that any gelato with overly bright colors is likely spiked with artificial ingredients. To guarantee optimum quality, always opt for seasonal flavors.
## Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Dessert
Tiramisu has become a standard dessert on Italian restaurant menus worldwide, but there’s something truly special about enjoying this classic in its country of origin. Rome, in particular, offers some exceptional places to indulge in this coffee, chocolate, and mascarpone delicacy.
### Where to Find the Perfect Tiramisu
Without a doubt, the most famous tiramisu spot in Rome is **Pompi**. Inside this charming shop on **Via Albalonga**, near the **Re di Roma** metro station, you’ll find glass-door refrigerators displaying a wide variety of tantalizing tiramisus for take-away. **Pompi** offers various styles, including classic, strawberry, banana, and pistachio.
Another place to find great tiramisu is **Pasticceria Barberini** on **Via Marmorata** in the neighborhood of Testaccio. They serve quick and cheap teacup-sized tiramisus that are as adorable as they are delicious. Many restaurants and *pasticcerias* (pastry shops) in Testaccio excel at making tiramisu, so it’s hard to go wrong in this neighborhood.
From the aroma of freshly brewed espresso to the creamy sweetness of tiramisu, Rome offers a culinary journey as captivating as its historical landmarks. So, come and explore the flavors of the Eternal City and create memories that will last a lifetime. Each bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and the simple pleasures of life. Bon appétit!
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