Are you planning a trip to Rome and wondering what to eat? Look no further than this guide for foodie travelers. Rome is known for its delicious cuisine, with traditional dishes that have been perfected over centuries. From pasta to pizza, gelato to espresso, there is something for everyone in the Eternal City. Let’s dive into some of the best foods to try in Rome.

Classic Italian Dishes

Pasta

No trip to Rome would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous pasta dishes. Carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana are just a few of the classics that you’ll find on menus throughout the city. Carbonara is made with eggs, pancetta, and pecorino cheese, while cacio e pepe is a simple dish of pasta with cheese and pepper. Amatriciana is a tomato-based sauce made with guanciale (cured pork cheek) and pecorino cheese. Be sure to try all three of these dishes during your trip to Rome.

Pizza

Italy is the birthplace of pizza, and Rome has its own unique style. Roman pizza is thin and crispy, with a crispy crust that is often brushed with olive oil. Toppings range from classic margherita (tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil) to more creative options like potato and truffle. Head to Pizzeria La Montecarlo for some of the best pizza in Rome.

Gelato

Gelato is a must-try when in Rome, and you’ll find gelaterias on nearly every corner. Look for gelaterias that use fresh, high-quality ingredients and avoid places that have brightly colored gelato (a sign that it’s likely made with artificial ingredients). Try flavors like pistachio, stracciatella, and nocciola (hazelnut) for a truly authentic experience.

Roman Street Food

Supplì

Supplì are a popular Roman street food that is similar to arancini (fried rice balls). These deep-fried snacks are made with rice, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, and are often served as a quick lunch or snack.

Trapizzino

If you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch in Rome, look no further than the trapizzino. This triangular-shaped sandwich is made with pizza dough and stuffed with traditional Roman fillings like chicken cacciatore or braised beef. Head to Trapizzino in Testaccio for some of the best in the city.

Coffee and Desserts

Espresso

Italians take their coffee seriously, and a trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without trying an espresso. Look for cafes with a barista bar (where you can watch the coffee being made) and try an espresso or cappuccino like a true Italian.

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that originated in the Veneto region but is now popular throughout Italy. This layered dessert is made with ladyfingers soaked in coffee and layered with a mixture of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and egg yolks. Look for tiramisu at traditional trattorias and cafes throughout Rome.

Cannoli

Cannoli are a Sicilian dessert that have become popular throughout Italy. These pastry shells are filled with a sweet ricotta cheese mixture and often topped with pistachios or chocolate chips. Head to I Dolci di Nonna Vincenza in Trastevere for some of the best cannoli in Rome.

Conclusion

Rome is a food lover’s paradise, with something for every palate. From classic Italian dishes like pasta and pizza to Roman street food like supplì and trapizzino, you’ll never go hungry in the Eternal City. Be sure to try some gelato, espresso, and traditional desserts like tiramisu and cannoli for a truly authentic experience. Buon appetito!