Are you planning a trip to Rome but worried about the high cost of food? Fear not, as the Eternal City is home to some of the best budget-friendly eats in Italy. From classic Roman dishes to street food staples, here’s a guide to what to eat in Rome on a budget.

Roman Classics

When in Rome, you can’t miss out on the city’s classic dishes. While some may be on the pricier side, there are affordable options available. One must-try dish is cacio e pepe, a simple but delicious pasta dish made with pecorino romano cheese and black pepper. Head to Trattoria da Enzo al 29 in the lively Trastevere neighborhood for their tasty and affordable version.

Another Roman classic is supplì, a fried rice ball stuffed with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. These can be found in many pizzerias and street food stands around the city, but for a unique twist, try the supplì al telefono at Trapizzino. These are supplì with a piece of melted cheese that stretches like a telephone wire when pulled apart.

Street Food

Rome is known for its street food, and there are plenty of options that won’t break the bank. One popular snack is pizza al taglio, or pizza by the slice. Head to Pizzarium in the Prati neighborhood for their creative and affordable slices, or to Forno Campo de’ Fiori for a more traditional slice.

For a quick and filling lunch, try a panino, or sandwich, from Mordi e Vai in the Testaccio Market. Their sandwiches are made with traditional Roman ingredients like tripe, meatballs, and porchetta, all at a reasonable price.

Gelato

No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in some gelato. While some gelaterias can be quite expensive, there are affordable options available. One such place is Gelateria dei Gracchi, which has three locations in the city. Their gelato is made with high-quality ingredients and is priced reasonably.

Another budget-friendly gelateria is Gelateria La Romana, which has several locations around Rome. Their signature dessert is the cremosa, a mix of whipped cream and gelato that is both creamy and refreshing.

In conclusion, eating well in Rome on a budget is definitely possible. From classic Roman dishes to street food favorites and gelato, there are plenty of affordable options available. So, go ahead and indulge in the delicious food that Rome has to offer without breaking the bank. Buon appetito!