If there is one thing that Rome is famous for, it’s the food. From classic pasta dishes to mouth-watering street food, there is no shortage of delicious eats to try in the Eternal City. As a seasoned traveler and foodie, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling some of the best cuisine Rome has to offer. In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for what to eat in Rome.
Traditional Roman Dishes
When it comes to traditional Roman cuisine, there are a few dishes that should be at the top of your list. Here are my top picks:
Carbonara
Carbonara is a classic Roman dish made with spaghetti, bacon, eggs, and cheese. The sauce is rich and creamy, and the flavors are perfectly balanced. One of the best places to try carbonara in Rome is at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Trastevere.
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is another classic Roman dish that is simple but delicious. It’s made with spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The cheese and pepper create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. For the best cacio e pepe in Rome, head to Roscioli, a restaurant in the historic center.
Street Food
When you’re exploring Rome, be sure to sample some of the city’s famous street food. Here are two must-try options:
Supplì
Supplì is a popular Roman street food that is similar to a croquette. It’s made with rice, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, and then deep-fried to perfection. Supplì is often served as an appetizer or snack, and it’s a perfect on-the-go bite. Try it at Trapizzino, a street food vendor with locations throughout the city.
Pizza al Taglio
Pizza al taglio, or pizza by the slice, is another popular street food in Rome. The pizza is sold by weight and is often topped with a variety of delicious ingredients, like prosciutto, arugula, and cherry tomatoes. For the best pizza al taglio in Rome, head to Pizzarium, a small pizzeria near the Vatican.
Gelato
No trip to Rome is complete without sampling some of the city’s famous gelato. Here are two of my all-time favorite gelaterias:
Giolitti
Giolitti is one of Rome’s oldest and most famous gelaterias. They offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic chocolate and vanilla to more unique options like fig and honey. Giolitti can get busy, so be prepared to wait in line.
Fatamorgana
Fatamorgana is a newer gelateria in Rome, but it has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. They offer a range of delicious and unique flavors, like pear and gorgonzola and black sesame. The gelato is made with all-natural ingredients and is incredibly creamy.
In conclusion, Rome is a food lover’s paradise, and there is no shortage of delicious eats to try. From classic pasta dishes to mouth-watering street food and gelato, the city has something for everyone. So, be sure to come hungry and ready to indulge in all that Rome has to offer.