Roman cuisine is characterized by bold, simple flavors, often relying on high-quality local ingredients. Key elements include pecorino romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), black pepper, and artichokes. Dishes are often hearty and satisfying, reflecting the city's agricultural heritage.

Cacio e Pepe

A deceptively simple dish consisting of only pasta (usually tonnarelli or spaghetti), pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water. The key lies in the perfect emulsification of the cheese and water to create a creamy sauce.

Pasta alla Gricia

Considered the 'white' ancestor of Amatriciana, this dish features pasta (often rigatoni), guanciale, pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. It's a rich and savory classic.

Pasta all'Amatriciana

Similar to Pasta alla Gricia, but with the addition of San Marzano tomatoes or tomato sauce. It's a more vibrant and tangy dish, showcasing the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Carbonara

A controversial dish outside of Italy due to variations, authentic Roman carbonara features pasta (spaghetti is common), guanciale, eggs (yolks only!), pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. Cream is never used.

Saltimbocca alla Romana

Thin slices of veal topped with prosciutto and sage, marinated in wine and then pan-fried. The name translates to 'jumps in the mouth,' referring to its deliciousness.

Carciofi alla Romana

Roman-style artichokes braised with mint, garlic, and parsley in olive oil and water. They are tender and flavorful, showcasing the artichoke's natural sweetness.

Carciofi alla Giudia

Jewish-style artichokes, deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. The artichoke blooms open during frying, resembling a flower. It is a Jewish-Roman specialty.

Supplì al Telefono

Fried rice balls (similar to arancini) filled with mozzarella cheese. The 'telefono' refers to the string of melted mozzarella that stretches out when the supplì is broken open, resembling a telephone cord.

Pizza Romana

Characterized by its thin, crispy crust and simple toppings. Often features ingredients like tomato sauce, mozzarella, anchovies, or olives.

Abbacchio alla Scottadito

Grilled lamb chops, marinated with herbs and garlic. The name translates to 'burn your fingers,' as they are best eaten hot off the grill.

Local Tips

To truly experience Roman cuisine, it's helpful to know a few tips and tricks. From understanding local customs to choosing the right restaurants, these tips will enhance your culinary journey.

Eat Like a Local

Venture beyond the tourist traps and seek out trattorias and osterias in quieter neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.

Learn Basic Italian Phrases

Knowing a few basic Italian phrases will go a long way in communicating with restaurant staff and ordering food.

Check Reviews, But Don't Be Afraid to Explore

Online reviews can be helpful, but don't be afraid to try smaller, less-known restaurants that catch your eye.

Try the House Wine

House wine (vino della casa) is often a good value and a great way to sample local wines.

Be Prepared for a Relaxed Pace

Dining in Rome is a leisurely affair. Don't expect fast service; take your time and enjoy the experience.

Understand 'Coperto'

'Coperto' is a cover charge that is automatically added to the bill, typically covering bread and service.

Ask About the 'Piatti del Giorno'

Many restaurants offer 'piatti del giorno' (daily specials) that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients.

About Roma

Lazio

Food History

Roman cuisine is deeply rooted in its history, evolving from simple peasant fare to the sophisticated dishes enjoyed today. Influences range from ancient Roman techniques using ingredients like garum (fermented fish sauce), to the Papal State's emphasis on rich, hearty dishes, and later, the 'cucina povera' or 'poor kitchen' philosophy focusing on utilizing inexpensive, readily available ingredients.

Food Culture

Food in Rome is more than just sustenance; it's a central part of the culture and social life. Meals are often enjoyed with family and friends, and long lunches and dinners are common. There's a strong emphasis on seasonality and using fresh, local ingredients.

Family Meals

Family meals are a cornerstone of Italian culture, and Rome is no exception. Sunday lunch, in particular, is a special occasion where families gather to share food and conversation.

Aperitivo

Aperitivo is a pre-dinner tradition where people gather for drinks and snacks, often at bars or cafes. It's a social occasion to relax and unwind before dinner.

Seasonality

Romans place a high value on using seasonal ingredients. Menus often change depending on what is fresh and available at the market.

Slow Food Movement

The Slow Food movement has gained traction in Rome, promoting the preservation of traditional foods and local culinary heritage.

Trattorias and Osterias

These traditional restaurants offer a more casual and authentic dining experience, often serving regional specialties at reasonable prices.

Browse by Cuisine

Restaurants in Roma

Showing 12 of 12 restaurants

Pizza Marinara

Molino / Roma (Italy)

Simple pizza with tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil.

Average Rating

Pizza Margherita

Molino / Roma (Italy)

Classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil.

Average Rating

Amatriciana

Osteria Oliva / Roma (Italy)

Traditional Roman pasta dish with guanciale, tomato sauce, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.

Average Rating

Cacio e Pepe

Osteria Oliva / Roma (Italy)

Simple yet flavorful Roman pasta dish with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Average Rating

Carbonara

Osteria Oliva / Roma (Italy)

Classic Roman pasta dish with egg yolks, guanciale, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.

Average Rating

Amatriciana

Sugo d'Oro / Roma (Italy)

Pasta dish with guanciale, tomato, pecorino romano cheese, and sometimes onion.

Average Rating

Cacio e Pepe

Sugo d'Oro / Roma (Italy)

Simple yet flavorful pasta dish with pecorino romano cheese and black pepper.

Average Rating

Carbonara

Sugo d'Oro / Roma (Italy)

Classic Roman pasta dish made with eggs, guanciale, pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper.

Average Rating

Amatriciana

Ristorante Lin / Roma (Italy)

A Roman pasta dish made with guanciale, tomato, Pecorino Romano cheese, and chili pepper.

Average Rating

Carbonara

Ristorante Lin / Roma (Italy)

A Roman pasta dish made with eggs, guanciale (cured pork cheek), Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.

Average Rating

Cacio e Pepe

Ristorante Lin / Roma (Italy)

A simple Roman pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water.

Average Rating

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Ristorante Lin / Roma (Italy)

Spaghetti with clams, garlic, olive oil, and parsley. A classic Roman seafood dish.

Average Rating

Signature Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

Pasta alla Gricia

Considered the 'white' ancestor of Amatriciana, this dish features pasta (often rigatoni), guanciale, pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. It's a rich and savory classic.

Pasta all'Amatriciana

Similar to Pasta alla Gricia, but with the addition of San Marzano tomatoes or tomato sauce. It's a more vibrant and tangy dish, showcasing the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Carbonara

Saltimbocca alla Romana

Thin slices of veal topped with prosciutto and sage, marinated in wine and then pan-fried. The name translates to 'jumps in the mouth,' referring to its deliciousness.

Carciofi alla Romana

Roman-style artichokes braised with mint, garlic, and parsley in olive oil and water. They are tender and flavorful, showcasing the artichoke's natural sweetness.

Carciofi alla Giudia

Jewish-style artichokes, deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. The artichoke blooms open during frying, resembling a flower. It is a Jewish-Roman specialty.

Supplì al Telefono

Pizza Romana

Characterized by its thin, crispy crust and simple toppings. Often features ingredients like tomato sauce, mozzarella, anchovies, or olives.

Abbacchio alla Scottadito

Grilled lamb chops, marinated with herbs and garlic. The name translates to 'burn your fingers,' as they are best eaten hot off the grill.

Local Tips

To truly experience Roman cuisine, it's helpful to know a few tips and tricks. From understanding local customs to choosing the right restaurants, these tips will enhance your culinary journey.

Eat Like a Local

Venture beyond the tourist traps and seek out trattorias and osterias in quieter neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.

Learn Basic Italian Phrases

Knowing a few basic Italian phrases will go a long way in communicating with restaurant staff and ordering food.

Check Reviews, But Don't Be Afraid to Explore

Online reviews can be helpful, but don't be afraid to try smaller, less-known restaurants that catch your eye.

Try the House Wine

House wine (vino della casa) is often a good value and a great way to sample local wines.

Be Prepared for a Relaxed Pace

Dining in Rome is a leisurely affair. Don't expect fast service; take your time and enjoy the experience.

Understand 'Coperto'

'Coperto' is a cover charge that is automatically added to the bill, typically covering bread and service.

Ask About the 'Piatti del Giorno'

Many restaurants offer 'piatti del giorno' (daily specials) that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients.

About Roma

Lazio

Food History

Food Culture

Family Meals

Family meals are a cornerstone of Italian culture, and Rome is no exception. Sunday lunch, in particular, is a special occasion where families gather to share food and conversation.

Aperitivo

Aperitivo is a pre-dinner tradition where people gather for drinks and snacks, often at bars or cafes. It's a social occasion to relax and unwind before dinner.

Seasonality

Romans place a high value on using seasonal ingredients. Menus often change depending on what is fresh and available at the market.

Slow Food Movement

The Slow Food movement has gained traction in Rome, promoting the preservation of traditional foods and local culinary heritage.

Trattorias and Osterias

These traditional restaurants offer a more casual and authentic dining experience, often serving regional specialties at reasonable prices.

Browse by Cuisine

Restaurants in Roma

Signature Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

Pasta alla Gricia

Pasta all'Amatriciana

Carbonara

Saltimbocca alla Romana

Carciofi alla Romana

Carciofi alla Giudia

Supplì al Telefono

Pizza Romana

Abbacchio alla Scottadito

Local Tips

Eat Like a Local

Learn Basic Italian Phrases

Check Reviews, But Don't Be Afraid to Explore

Try the House Wine

Be Prepared for a Relaxed Pace

Understand 'Coperto'

Ask About the 'Piatti del Giorno'

About Roma

Food History

Food Culture

Family Meals

Aperitivo

Seasonality

Slow Food Movement

Trattorias and Osterias

Login

Browse by Cuisine

Restaurants in Roma

Signature Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

Pasta alla Gricia

Pasta all'Amatriciana

Carbonara

Saltimbocca alla Romana

Carciofi alla Romana

Carciofi alla Giudia

Supplì al Telefono

Pizza Romana

Abbacchio alla Scottadito

Local Tips

Eat Like a Local

Learn Basic Italian Phrases

Check Reviews, But Don't Be Afraid to Explore

Try the House Wine

Be Prepared for a Relaxed Pace

Understand 'Coperto'

Ask About the 'Piatti del Giorno'

About Roma

Food History

Food Culture

Family Meals

Aperitivo

Seasonality

Slow Food Movement

Trattorias and Osterias

Login