Italy is known for its incredible cuisine, and Rome is no exception. From classic pasta dishes to mouth-watering pastries, the Eternal City offers a plethora of delicious options for foodies. In this article, we’ll explore some of the must-try dishes and where to find them in Rome.

Roman Classics

When in Rome, you simply cannot miss out on some of the city’s most iconic dishes. Here are a few must-try options:

Carbonara

Carbonara is a classic Roman dish made with pasta, eggs, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and pecorino romano cheese. The result is a creamy, salty, and indulgent pasta dish that is simply irresistible. For some of the best carbonara in Rome, head to Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 or Roscioli.

Cacio e Pepe

Another classic pasta dish, cacio e pepe is made with spaghetti, pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. The dish is simple yet flavorful, and the cheese creates a creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Some of the best cacio e pepe in Rome can be found at Flavio al Velavevodetto or Roma Sparita.

Supplì

Supplì are a Roman street food specialty, similar to arancini in Sicily. These fried rice balls are filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sometimes meat or vegetables. They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them the perfect snack or appetizer. Try them at Supplizio or Trapizzino.

Roman Street Food

If you’re looking for something quick and delicious while exploring the city, Rome’s street food scene is not to be missed. Here are a few options to try:

Pizza al Taglio

Pizza al taglio, or “pizza by the slice,” is a popular street food in Rome. The rectangular slices are sold by weight and can be topped with a variety of ingredients, from classic margherita to more creative options like prosciutto and figs. Head to Pizzarium or Bonci Pizzarium for some of the best pizza al taglio in Rome.

Porchetta

Porchetta is a slow-roasted pork belly that is a staple of Roman cuisine. The meat is seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and other herbs, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish. Porchetta is often served in a sandwich, making it the perfect on-the-go meal. Try it at Er Buchetto or Panificio Bonci.

Gelato

No trip to Italy is complete without gelato, and Rome has plenty of incredible gelaterias to choose from. Look for places that make their gelato fresh daily and use high-quality ingredients. Some of the best gelaterias in Rome include Gelateria dei Gracchi, Giolitti, and Fatamorgana.

Sweet Treats

After all the savory dishes, it’s time for something sweet. Here are a few Roman desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth:

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert made with ladyfingers soaked in coffee and layered with a mixture of eggs, sugar, and mascarpone cheese. The result is a creamy and decadent dessert that is perfect for sharing. Try it at Pompi or Two Sizes.

Cannoli

Cannoli are a Sicilian dessert that have become popular throughout Italy. These crispy pastry shells are filled with sweet ricotta cheese and sometimes chocolate chips or candied fruit. Look for cannoli at Pasticceria Regoli or I Dolci di Nonna Vincenza.

Maritozzo

Maritozzo is a sweet bread roll filled with whipped cream and sometimes chocolate or jam. It’s a popular breakfast pastry in Rome and can also be enjoyed as a dessert. Head to Regoli or Roscioli for some of the best maritozzo in the city.

Conclusion

Rome is a food lover’s paradise, with an endless array of delicious dishes to try. From classic pastas to street food specialties and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. So come hungry and explore all that Rome has to offer!