Rome’s dining scene masterfully blends ancient food traditions, local flavors and modern culinary innovation. Whether you’re after classic Roman pasta, wood-oven pizza or elevated tasting menus, here are 20 restaurants in Rome that stand out both for food and ambiance.
The List
Listed below are 20 restaurants across Rome worth visiting (again, not strictly ranked but highly recommended):
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La Pergola – Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, renowned for luxury dining and views. Sierra In The City
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Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina – A beloved spot combining deli, wine bar and restaurant for memorable Roman cuisine. Embrace Someplace
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Osteria da Enzo al 29 – Traditional trattoria in Trastevere celebrated for authenticity and flavor. Embrace Someplace
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La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali – Near the Roman Forum, offers classic Roman dishes in a friendly, local setting. Eating Europe
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Armando al Pantheon – Historic restaurant near the Pantheon with reputation for traditional Roman cuisine. Eating Europe
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Tonnarello – Pasta-centric and popular—expect lines, but great value and flavor. Embrace Someplace
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BorghiNiciana Pastificio Artigianale – Artisan pasta destination noted in travel-food lists for Rome. Embrace Someplace
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Mimi e Coco – Stylish restaurant with modern Italian flair, listed among Rome’s best. Embrace Someplace
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La Montecarlo – A lively Roman institution known for good food and atmosphere. Embrace Someplace
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SantoPalato – Recognized for adventurous Roman cuisine and local acclaim. World of Mouth
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Retrobottega – A modern, creative dining spot in Rome’s evolving scene. World of Mouth
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Zia Restaurant – Local favorite recommended for atmosphere and food quality. World of Mouth
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Enoteca L’antidoto – Wine-centric spot paired with Italian cuisine, frequently recommended. World of Mouth
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Pastificio Guerra – A casual but excellent pasta takeaway option in the Spanish Steps area. The Roman Guy
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Ad Hoc Ristorante – A well-reviewed place offering a refined dining experience in Rome. Tripadvisor
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Marco Martini Restaurant – Creative modern Italian cuisine cited in the MICHELIN guide. MICHELIN Guide
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Green T. – A lesser-known but very good venture focusing on modern flavours and high quality. MICHELIN Guide
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Il Collettivo Gastronomico Testaccio – Unique dining experience inside a larger food-culture complex in the Testaccio district. Luggage and life
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Checchino dal 1887 – Historic Roman restaurant specializing in offal and time-tested Roman dishes. Luggage and life
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Lo Scopettaro – Cozy, traditional and flavour-rich—recommended for those wanting a local experience. Luggage and life
Dining Tips for Rome
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Reservations recommended: Especially for popular spots in peak hours.
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Try Roman classics: Dishes like cacio e pepe, amatriciana, carbonara and supplì are must-haves.
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Watch for tourist traps: Some restaurants near major sights inflate prices—look for places filled with locals.
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Timing matters: Lunch typically 12:30–14:30, dinner 19:30–22:30; many restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
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Explore neighborhoods: Trastevere, Testaccio, Monti and Prati have great mix of local charm and fantastic food.