5 Restaurants to Try in Rome
“All roads lead to Rome” so goes the saying. In this case, the often-used expression is not one we’re looking to change, because we’ll gladly have all roads leading to Rome, if that means they lead us to the Roman restaurants on this list.
Rome is filled with unbelievable choices for pasta, pizza, local delicacies and disctinct Roman dishes you won’t find outside the walls of Rome. There are countless locations to try, so in this article, we’ve tried to give snapshot into some of the opportunities you’ll find. For other recommendations, check out Katie Parla’s excellent guide about eating in Rome. Recently, the Washington Post featured our good friend, Marco Ceccarelli, co-owner of Ristori degli Angeli, for his restaurant’s classic “uova in trippa” dish. Uova in trippa is a Roman delicacy, so we were delighted to see our friend’s interpretation receive high praise and recognition.
This inspired us to reach out and ask Marco for his recommendations of some great Roman restaurants, to try some more amazing Roman dishes. Marco graciously provided us with some spots worth checking out, so enough chitchat, here’s the list:
5 Restaurants in Rome
1. 180grammi Pizzeria Romana
You could not have a list of must-try Roman restaurants without a pizzeria Romana, as here you can test out the differences between pizza romana and pizza napoletana. 180g’s philosophy is “Back to the Pizza” an homage to the film “Back to the Future”. Their philosophy states they are taking the ancient traditions of roman pizzamaking into the future, with classic ingredients, but also new and modern twists. With a bold and innovative direction, the pizza future looks bright.
Marco’s recommendation: Pizza Romana con la Mortazza
2. Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara
A popular Roman treat, filetti di baccalà is fried cod, Rome’s answer to London’s fish and chips. Often found as an appetizer, or popularized as street food, this salted fish is a crunchy delight. If you’re looking for this delicacy, Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara is a Roman beacon for filetti di baccalà. Despite being a tiny locale, Dar Filettaro brings a huge amount of flavor, and an unforgettable experience.
Marco’s recommendation: Filetti di baccalà fritti (surprise!)
3. Ristoro degli Angeli
The list could not be complete without recognizing Marco’s restaurant (this one is also our recommendation!). A Michelin recognized restaurant, Ristoro degli Angeli prides itself on preserving the flavors of traditional dishes, while taking culinary risks and pushing the boundaries of cuisine. No small task, the restaurant seeks to serve local treasures, with seasonality and artisanal creations at the forefront. They also have an innovative vision of creating plant-based options and the use of gluten-free products, ultimately to create an inclusive environment for all food lovers. We say without hesitation, you must visit Marco and enjoy an incredible dining experience.
Marco’s recommendation: Uova in trippa
4. Trattoria da Enzo al 29
Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 is the type of place you want to discover almost by happenstance, when you’re looking for a restaurant in Trastevere. We happened to discover Da Enzo this way on our whirlwind 24 Hours in Rome trip. A lively experience, the place crowds quickly, but with every guest smiling and laughing, you’ll quickly immerse yourself in a true Trastevere experience. If you’re lucky, you may even be treated to a serenade, much like we were. Here you’ll find traditional Roman pastas, with fun and friendly staff waiting to meet you.
Marco’s recommendation: Tiramisù tradizionale
5. Osteria Bonelli
If you’re search for some of the more traditional roman dishes, head to Osteria Bonelli. A quaint location, this osteria offers traditional Roman fare that feels like home (for a Roman). You’ll find a wonderful meal at a good price, and you’ll soak in some of the Roman ways as you enjoy your meal near the famed Roman aqueducts, a reminder of the history and human experience that is Rome.
Marco’s recommendation: Tris al sugo (with salsiccia, spuntatura, and involtino)
