When visiting the Eternal City, knowing where to eat Rome is essential to taste the best of its rich culinary heritage. The historic city center has a trove of traditional trattorias, family-run osterias, and legendary dining spots.
So, whether you’re craving a plate of creamy carbonara, an expertly prepared saltimbocca, or the iconic carciofi alla giudia, finding the right place ensures an unforgettable meal.
We’ve been providing Italy travel planning services for over 10 years, so we get constant feedback from our clients about the local food spots they like (and don’t like) in Rome. We regularly travel to Rome for research and keep an updated list of where to eat.
Of course, we have an extensive list of places to eat in Rome, from street food to fine dining and contemporary spots, that we share with our Italy travel clients and can share with you, too, if you get in touch.
This guide highlights ten of the best classic restaurants in Rome’s historic center, where tradition meets exceptional flavors. Each spot offers authentic Roman dining taste, from Michelin-starred enotecas to hidden gems tucked away in charming piazzas.
10 Great Restaurants Where To Eat in Rome
We’re focusing on restaurants that work to keep Roman food traditions alive and are in the historic city center. In other words, the area east of the Tiber River to Borghese Park, including Piazza Navona, the Jewish Ghetto, and more.
We’re including the known Da Armando al Pantheon and (slightly more) under-the-radar places like La Matricianella, La Quercia, or Piperno. Read on to discover where to indulge, what to order, and insider tips to make the most of it.
Since these restaurants are beloved, we recommend reservations to ensure you have a table and don’t have to wait.
Achilli al Parlamento (Centro Storico)
Why go: A Michelin-starred restaurant and enoteca, Achilli al Parlamento is a must-visit for wine lovers and those seeking an elevated dining experience. This spot combines luxury with tradition with an extensive wine selection and exquisite Roman dishes.
What to order: The tasting menu is a fantastic way to experience the chef’s creativity, but classic pasta dishes and seafood specialties are also outstanding.
Good to know: Expect an upscale experience with exceptional service. It’s a fantastic choice for a special occasion or a refined night out. Reservations are essential.
Achilli al Parlamento – Via dei Prefetti, 15, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Da Armando Al Pantheon (near the Pantheon)
Why go: A true Roman institution with white tablecloths and great service, Da Armando al Pantheon has been serving authentic Roman cuisine since 1961. Run by the Gargioli family, this cozy osteria is one of the few traditional spots left near the Pantheon, maintaining a commitment to high-quality ingredients and time-honored recipes.
We also enjoy their wine list, which has interesting wines from the Lazio wine region and across Italy. Despite its growing popularity, it remains one of the best places in the city center for an authentic Roman meal.
What to order: The fettuccine with chicken regaje stands out, as is their famous carbonara pasta. Other must-try dishes include the Roman stracciatella cheese and the saltimbocca with seasonal puntarelle.
Good to know: Reservations are essential as this spot is well-known and books up quickly. Despite its fame, it remains a worthwhile visit for those seeking classic Roman fare in an intimate setting.
Da Armando Al Pantheon – Salita de’ Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Da Cesare Al Pellegrino (Rione Parione)
Why go: This is a city center outpost of the famed Da Cesare al Casaletto, helmed by Leonardo Vignoli and Maria Pia Cicconi. We first went to the Casaletto location of this restaurant with Katie Parla when our founder, Aida, was filming here for her show, Off Menu.
This center location has a “Trattoria Settimio” sign outside because it is at the location of a regaled trattoria that has been around for more than 90 years. Leonardo and Maria have now taken it over and are cooking the excellent Roman food they are known for while paying homage to the past.
What to order: The menu changes daily, but favorites include the broccoli and arzilla soup, hand-pulled fettuccine, Roman-style baccalà, and Teresa’s famous meatballs.
Good to know: The wine list focuses here on small producers, filled with hidden gems. Reservations are advisable.
Da Cesare Al Pellegrino – Via del Pellegrino, 162, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Da Gino Al Parlamento (Centro Storico)
Why Go: Tucked away on Vicolo Rosini, steps from Palazzo Montecitorio, Trattoria Dal Cavalier Gino is a true Roman institution serving classic cucina romana since 1963. This no-frills spot is a favorite among locals, politicians, and in-the-know travelers looking for authentic, home-style Roman food at fair prices. With its checkered tablecloths, lively atmosphere, and walls filled with (slightly gaudy) memorabilia, dining here feels like stepping back to old-school Rome.
What to Order: The menu is a love letter to Roman classics featuring carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana, all made the traditional way. Meat lovers should try the abbacchio alla scottadito (grilled lamb chops), while vegetable-forward options like puntarelle with anchovies capture the simplicity of Roman cuisine. Finish with a slice of crostata or tiramisu and a digestivo like amaro or grappa.
Good to Know: Despite its central location, Da Gino al Parlamento remains reasonably priced, making it a great value. The trattoria is popular and fills up quickly, so reservations are recommended.
Da Gino Al Parlamento – Vicolo Rosini, 4, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Grappolo D’Oro (Campo de’ Fiori)
Why go: This contemporary osteria focuses on high-quality seasonal ingredients, blending classic Roman flavors with a modern touch. Located near the bustling Campo de’ Fiori market, Grappolo D’Oro is an excellent choice for those who enjoy Roman cuisine with refined techniques and a thoughtfully curated wine selection.
What to order: The veal breast al fornara stands out, as is the strozzapreti pasta with baccalà. For dessert, the creamy Marsala zabaione is not to be missed.
Good to know: The wine list is imposing, focusing on organic and natural producers. While the restaurant is well-known, it maintains a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.
Grappolo D’Oro – Piazza della Cancelleria, 80, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
La Matricianella (Centro Storico)
Why go: A beloved trattoria in the heart of Rome, La Matricianella is known for its dedication to traditional Roman cuisine, served in a cozy, old-school setting. The menu highlights time-honored dishes made with the highest quality ingredients.
What to order: The Amatriciana stands out, alongside the Cacio e Pepe (pasta with Pecorino Roman and black pepper) and Saltimbocca alla Romana. Be sure to try their extensive selection of antipasti as well.
Good to know: Reservations are recommended, as this trattoria is popular with both locals and visitors looking for authentic Roman flavors.
La Matricianella – Via del Leone, 4, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Osteria La Quercia (Campo de’ Fiori)
Why go: Tucked away near the lively Campo de’ Fiori square, La Quercia is a charming osteria known for its beautiful setting on Piazza della Quercia. On warmer days, the outdoor tables make for a perfect dining experience. The menu blends traditional Roman recipes with modern touches, offering a seasonal selection of dishes.
What to order: Don’t miss the tonnarelli cacio e pepe, gnocchi with clams, meatballs prepared saltimbocca-style, and the flavorful pork neck bombette.
Good to know: This is an excellent spot for a relaxed meal in a scenic location. While it’s not as widely known as some other trattorias, it remains a favorite among locals and in-the-know visitors. Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating.
Osteria La Quercia – Piazza della Quercia, 23, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Piperno (Jewish Ghetto)
Why go: A historic restaurant in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, Piperno has served classic Roman-Jewish cuisine since 1860. Its refined yet welcoming atmosphere makes it a top choice for those wanting to experience one of Rome’s most unique culinary traditions.
What to order: The carciofi alla giudia (fried Jewish artichokes) is an absolute must, along with the baccalà, the handmade pasta, the coda alla vaccinara, and the trippa alla romana.
Good to know: Given its historic reputation, reservations are highly advised, especially during peak dining hours.
Piperno – Via Monte dè Cenci, 9, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Poldo e Giana (Centro Storico)
Why go: Poldo e Giana blends tradition with modernity, serving refined Italian cuisine in an elegant yet welcoming setting. This restaurant is a hidden gem in Rome’s historic center known for its attention to detail and fresh, high-quality ingredients.
What to order: Their fresh pasta dishes are a highlight, as are their expertly cooked meats and seafood offerings.
Good to know: While not as widely known as some classic trattorias, Poldo e Giana offers a refined take on Roman cuisine, making it an excellent option for those seeking a more contemporary dining experience. Reservations are recommended.
Poldo e Giana – Via dei Prefetti, 17, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Salumeria Roscioli (Centro Storico)
Why go: A paradise for food lovers, Salumeria Roscioli combines a gourmet deli, wine bar, and restaurant, offering some of the best-cured meats, cheeses, and traditional Roman dishes in the city. The atmosphere is lively, and the shelves are lined with the finest Italian products, making it a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience.
We have been here nearly twenty times and always enjoy it. However, it and Armando al Pantheon are known, so you will come across other Americans (especially New Yorkers since there is now an outpost there), FYI.
What to order: Their Carbonara is one of the most celebrated in Rome, made with the perfect balance of guanciale, pecorino, and egg. Other highlights include the burrata with sun-dried tomatoes and their expertly curated selection of salumi and cheeses.
Good to know: Reservations are essential, as this spot is incredibly popular. If you can’t get a table, consider visiting their bakery for fresh bread and pastries or their wine shop for a curated selection of Italian wines.
Salumeria Roscioli – Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Classic Rome Foods To Try
Choosing the right neighborhood to stay in Rome can make all the difference in your experience of the Eternal City. Whether you prefer the city center’s historic charm, Monti’s bohemian vibes, Prati’s elegance, or Trastevere’s lively atmosphere, each area offers something unique. And no matter where you stay, indulging in Rome’s traditional food is a must.
Check out our guide to more than 15 classic Rome foods, from pizza al taglio to lesser-known local favorites like trapizzino, supplì, maritozzi, and coda alla vaccinara Let your stay in Rome be as flavorful as it is unforgettable.
What Is An Osteria: A Guide To Classic Italian Restaurants
If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Rome’s city center, classic trattorie are the way to go. These traditional, family-run eateries serve up iconic classic dishes like Carbonara, Amatriciana, and Cacio e Pepe in a warm, no-frills setting.
But when dining in Italy, it’s helpful to understand the different types of restaurants you’ll encounter, from casual osterie to refined ristorante and wine-focused enoteche. Check out our guide on what is an osteria is and the various kinds of Italian restaurants to help you navigate the dining scene like a local.
Classic Italian Recipes
Speaking of classics, want to cook up some flavors of Italy? Here are a few of our readers’ favorite classic Italian recipes:
Lazio Travel Guide
Thinking of traveling to Rome’s Lazio region in real life? Check out our free Lazio Travel Guide for our best travel tips, recipes, and articles on Italy.
Have Us Plan Your Italy Trip
Did you know we’re also a boutique travel agency specializing in Italian travel planning? If you want more advice on dining and drinks in Rome, from classic cocktails to craft beer, or help arranging local food tours or your full trip, our Italy trip planner services are here to help.
