Are you planning a trip to Rome, Italy and wondering what delicious dishes you should try while you’re there? Look no further! Here’s a guide to some of the must-try foods in Rome.
Roman Cuisine: A Brief Introduction
Roman cuisine is known for its simplicity and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Many dishes feature local ingredients such as artichokes, Romanesco broccoli, and pecorino cheese. The cuisine is also heavily influenced by the city’s history, with dishes dating back to ancient Rome still popular today. In addition to classic Italian dishes such as pasta and pizza, Rome has its own unique specialties that you won’t want to miss.
Classic Roman Dishes
Carbonara
Carbonara is a classic Roman pasta dish made with spaghetti, eggs, guanciale (cured pork jowl), pecorino cheese, and black pepper. The dish is creamy and indulgent, and the combination of salty pork and rich egg yolk is simply divine. You’ll find carbonara on almost every menu in Rome, but some of the best can be found at Roscioli, Trattoria Da Enzo al 29, and Flavio al Velavevodetto.
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is another classic Roman pasta dish made with spaghetti, pecorino cheese, black pepper, and a bit of pasta water to create a creamy sauce. The dish is deceptively simple, but when done well, it’s absolutely delicious. Some of the best places to try cacio e pepe in Rome include Roma Sparita, Trattoria Da Teo, and Felice a Testaccio.
Roman Street Food
Supplì
Supplì are deep-fried rice balls filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sometimes bits of meat. They’re crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, and make for the perfect snack or appetizer. You’ll find supplì at many of the city’s street food vendors, but some of the best can be found at Supplizio and Trapizzino.
Pizza al Taglio
Pizza al taglio, or “pizza by the slice,” is a popular Roman street food. The pizza is baked in rectangular trays and sold by weight, with a variety of toppings to choose from. Some of the best places to try pizza al taglio in Rome include Pizzarium, Bonci Pizzarium, and Forno Campo de’ Fiori.
Sweet Treats
Gelato
No trip to Italy is complete without indulging in gelato, and Rome has some of the best gelaterias in the country. Some of the most popular flavors include pistachio, stracciatella (chocolate chip), and gianduia (chocolate hazelnut). Some of the best places to try gelato in Rome include Gelateria del Teatro, Fatamorgana, and Gelarmony.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. While tiramisu is popular throughout Italy, Rome has its own unique version made with a local liqueur called Strega. Some of the best places to try tiramisu in Rome include Pompi, Two Sizes, and Il Piccolo.
Conclusion
Rome is a food lover’s paradise, with something to please every palate. From classic pasta dishes to indulgent street food and sweet treats, you won’t be disappointed with the culinary offerings in Rome. So go ahead and indulge – after all, you’re on vacation!