Top 5 Must-Visit Restaurants in Rome

Along with French cuisine, Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide! It is impossible to imagine it without the variety of sauces, which are used in countless ways—for pasta, fish, meat, poultry, and other dishes. The most famous include Carbonara sauce with Parmesan, ham, and Gorgonzola, Marsala sauce with broth, wine, and mushrooms, and Pesto sauce with garlic, basil, and nuts. Other Italian sauces like Bolognese, Passata, and Rossini are also popular worldwide.

There is a belief that the famous pasta originated in China and appeared in Italy at the turn of the 13th-14th centuries, brought back by Marco Polo after one of his travels. Tomatoes appeared in Italy in the 16th century, having arrived from South America. Before this, tomatoes were already widely used in Spain and Portugal. The tomatoes became popular in the Roman Empire and were frequently used to create traditional sauces like Parmigiana (whole peeled tomatoes mixed with Italian cheeses) and Napoletana (pureed tomatoes with added spices and basil), used for pasta and pizza. It's even said that the Italian Republic's flag reflects the nation's favorite ingredients: green for basil leaves, white for mozzarella balls, and red for tomatoes.

Italian cuisine is fascinating in that every region of the country has its distinct ways of preparing dishes. Additionally, each area has its national delicacy.

Roman cuisine and its features

Before we introduce you to the best restaurants in Rome, let's get to know a little more about traditional Roman cuisine, its cultural traditions, and features. Authentic cuisine plays a significant role in getting acquainted with the city. Of course, culinary art in Italy isn't limited to just pasta, pizza, various antipasti, and gelato.

Roman cuisine has developed over centuries, regardless of various political, cultural, and historical events. Ancient Rome was rightfully considered one of the most important gastronomic centers of all time. Ancient Greek culture had a significant influence on local traditions. Over time, dishes from Ancient Greek cuisine were transformed, and enriched with various innovations and secret ingredients brought from other countries. Often, much was borrowed from the colonies where the Roman Empire held power. Even then, local cuisine could rightfully bear the title of "international."

During the Renaissance, Rome saw the rise of professional high-class cuisine. Not only the best sculptors, artists, and architects gathered in the ancient city, but it was also a haven for professional chefs. For example, the widely known master Bartolomeo Scappi, a Vatican chef, authored one of the most famous cookbooks in the world, Opera dell'arte del Cucinare. This monumental work with over 1,000 recipes was published back in 1570. In his book, the author not only described in detail the preparation of various dishes but also shared the specifics of cooking techniques and tools typical of that era. One of the first depictions of a fork can be found in the works of Bartolomeo Scappi.

What should you know about the Romans themselves? They are people with a generous spirit who love to eat plenty, heartily, and deliciously. Don't be surprised if portions in Roman restaurants are large, and the dishes, made from the freshest ingredients, are incredibly tasty. Don’t try to take on the impossible—trying all Italian delicacies at once. According to proper etiquette, guests in a restaurant are usually offered antipasti (light appetizers), a first course, a second course, and dessert.

Top 5 restaurants in Rome

Here are the top 5 locations that every visitor to Rome must check out:

CiPASSO Vineria/Bistrot

An incredibly cozy spot overlooking Piazza Palazzo Firenze. It’s an off-the-beaten-path location in the city center, a bit away from the usual tourist routes, but still conveniently located, even during peak hours. Most of the time, regular patrons, familiar with the menu and atmosphere, frequent this restaurant. Guests say everything here is perfect—impeccable service, affordable prices, beautiful interiors, and a special atmosphere. You can read dozens of enthusiastic reviews and recommendations on Google.

What should you try? The delicious lasagna with beef or artichokes, crostini, smoked swordfish, meat appetizers, and tuna. Among the main dishes, try the carpaccio. Consider trying the tiramisu, panna cotta, and chocolate cake. There’s also a great wine selection—especially the rosé and white wine. They also serve excellent espresso.

In the evening, the place is always packed, as it's small, with tiny tables. Sometimes you may have to wait in line, but it's worth it. If you want to ensure a spot, you’ll need to arrive early, as reservations are not possible.

Address: Via dell'Orso, 71 (in central Rome).

RIONE XIV Bistrot

A cozy and small pizzeria with just 18 seats, located near the Vatican, known for its delicious Italian dishes. To get inside, you need to wait in line, as there's always a crowd, then ring the doorbell—they'll let you in.

This is a family-owned establishment, and the owner himself often serves the guests. Here, you can try traditional Roman pasta dishes, like Carbonara. Also, be sure to order saltimbocca (veal wrapped in prosciutto and sage), lasagna, and pesto pizza. For dessert, you must try the tiramisu, cupcakes, and panna cotta. As for drinks, we recommend prosecco, beer, and excellent coffee.

Although it's a pizzeria, the place is quite romantic and suitable for a special dinner. It has a welcoming atmosphere and always impeccable service. Despite the restaurant's popularity, the prices are quite affordable. You can read many enthusiastic reviews from both new and regular guests on Google. Reservations are allowed in advance. On weekdays, only lunch is served here, but on Fridays and Saturdays, you can have both lunch and dinner.

Address: Borgo Pio, 21 (close to the Vatican).

Borghiciana Pastificio Artigianale

This small, cozy establishment is far from a fancy, upscale restaurant. It’s a modest place where you can enjoy food served on paper plates and delicious wine from a plastic cup. Despite its modest appearance, the food is exceptional. Located near the Vatican, this spot often draws lines of people eager to sample its signature Italian dishes. The owner often comes out to personally thank guests for their patience while waiting.

Visitors rave about the handmade pasta, Caprese salad, panna cotta, and tiramisu. Many say that they serve the best pasta in Rome here. Be sure to stop by for lunch if you’re in the area.

Address: Borgo Pio, 186 (near the Vatican).

I sapori di Matteo e Francesco

According to visitors, everything about this place is wonderful—from the interior and atmosphere to the impeccable service and delicious food. The owner, Francesco, who often serves his guests himself, has put his heart into every dish and lovingly curated the wine list.

Here, you can enjoy delicious Roman dishes in a charming, casual setting. Not only do tourists and city visitors come here, but locals also love stopping by.

Address: Via Gianfilippo Usellini, 301 (outside the city center).

Mimi e Coco

This cozy little restaurant is often described as a charming hidden gem in Rome. You can enjoy perfectly prepared Carbonara pasta, asparagus risotto, and meatballs here at a fairly modest price. They’ll recommend a glass of delightful wine to accompany your lunch or dinner. In the evenings, there's usually a line, so arrive early to grab a table.

Address: Via del Governo Vecchio, 72 (in central Rome).

Of course, these aren't all the interesting spots in Rome, and it’s possible to talk endlessly about top-notch places. But ideally, instead of just talking, it's better to go and try them yourself, creating your ranking. The licensed attorneys at GARANT.in are ready to help you with your visa application to visit Italy. If you want to enjoy Roman or Italian cuisine regularly and are serious about it, you should consider moving to the next level and obtaining a residence permit. We can help you find a suitable reason for migration, gather and prepare the necessary documents, obtain a resident card, and resolve any related matters.