Culinary Experiences in Rome: Where to Eat

Are you traveling to the city and want to enjoy the best gastronomy in Rome? You’re in the right place! In this article, we will share a selection of places where you can enjoy one of the best cuisines in the world, which we are sure will leave you impressed. Get ready to taste the finest pastas and pizzas!

Although we know this list won’t include every restaurant that deserves a mention, especially in a city like Rome, where the food is exceptional, after our many visits, we want to share with you our small selection of favorite restaurants we always return to, each boasting an excellent balance between quality and price.

Da Enzo al 29

Located in Trastevere, one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods, Da Enzo al 29 is without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Rome. Small and with a family atmosphere, it has become a favorite among tourists while still serving some of the best pasta you’ll ever try.

Signature Dish: Cacio e Pepe, Fresh pasta with Pecorino cheese and black pepper; simple but with an unmatched flavor.

Achilli Al Parlamento

Originally a wine shop, Achilli Al Parlamento has always paid special attention to what’s served at the table. Open since 1972, it has become a must-visit in the heart of the city of Rome for lovers of fine cuisine. They offer two tasting menus full of creative dishes rooted in tradition, plus an à la carte option. Their wine selection is exceptional.

Signature Dish: Senza spaghetto alle vongole, Tortelli filled with inspiration from classic spaghetti alle vongole, served in a clam emulsion with parsley oil.

All’Oro

Owned by Riccardo Di Giacinto and Ramona Anello since 2007, All’Oro is a favorite for many diners’ first high-end culinary experience. Di Giacinto pays homage to traditional Italian gastronomy while adding modern touches, offering several menus including a vegetarian option.

Signature Dish: Potato and Cod Tiramisu with Cinta Senese Lard, A creative twist on the classic tiramisu, combining creamy potato purée, cured cod, and slices of Cinta Senese lard, giving depth and texture to the dish.

Enoteca La Torre

Located in Villa Laetitia, an iconic hotel by the Tiber River owned by the Fendi family, Enoteca La Torre is a cozy restaurant perfect for romantic dinners. Chef Domenico Stile creates Mediterranean dishes enhanced with fruits, nuts, and spices, offering two tasting menus and à la carte options.

Signature Dish: Risotto ai limoni, cannolicchi, vongole veraci, asparagi e yogurt. Creamy risotto with lemon, veraci clams, razor clams, asparagus, and a touch of yogurt for freshness and complexity.

Il Convivio Troiani

Founded in 1990 by the Marche brothers, Il Convivio Troiani focuses on the highest quality seasonal ingredients, with an emphasis on sustainability. They offer tasting menus of 5, 7, or 9 courses, including vegetarian options, along with an à la carte menu.

Signature Dish: Spaghettone “Monograno Felicetti” Cacio e Pepe. An elegant interpretation of the classic Roman recipe with perfectly textured pasta, finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and generous black pepper.

Imàgo

Located in the Hotel Hassler, just 600 meters from the Spanish Steps, Imàgo offers stunning panoramic views of Rome. Chef Andrea Antonini presents two changing menus that blend international influences with Roman roots.

Signature Dish: Risotto with Cacio Cheese, Pepper and Sesame. A refined reinterpretation of cacio e pepe, combining black pepper, Pecorino cheese, and sesame with a gourmet presentation.

La Pergola

Rome’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant, located at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, offers breathtaking rooftop views. Chef Heinz Beck combines Italian and Mediterranean traditions with creativity through tasting menus of varying lengths.

Signature Dish: Fagotelli “La Pergola”. A sophisticated reinterpretation of carbonara with pasta “packages” filled with carbonara cream, crispy pancetta, and aromatic touches for a perfectly balanced dish.

Moma

Founded by Franco and Gastone Pierini, Moma blends a bistro approach with gourmet cuisine. They focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and offer tasting menus and à la carte options.

Signature Dish: Risotto alla camomilla, anguilla affumicata, miele e origano. Chamomile-infused risotto with smoked eel, honey, and oregano.

Pipero Roma

Owned by Alessandro Pipero and led by chef Ciro Scamardella, Pipero Roma delivers refined modern dishes with traditional Italian ingredients. They offer tasting menus of 6, 8, or 10 courses.

Signature Dish: La Carbonara di Pipero. A perfected version of the classic carbonara with al dente pasta, high-quality guanciale, and a creamy egg and Pecorino mix, without cream.

Zia

Zia, in Trastevere, is the dream of young chef Antonio Ziantoni, offering eclectic modern cuisine inspired by his travels and rooted in Italian tradition.

Signature Dish: Risotto bufala, limone e genziana. Risotto with buffalo mozzarella, lemon, and gentian, blending seasonal flavors and a slightly bitter contrast with a stunning presentation.

In the so-called “Eternal City,” there is no shortage of restaurants to enjoy exceptional local cuisine. Recipes reflect Rome’s culinary traditions, the legacy of Italian grandmothers (“nonnas”), and a constant pursuit of innovation, all while honoring the city’s proud Mediterranean roots and legendary recipes.