Rome Lazio, Italy Travel Guide
Roman cuisine (Cucina Romana) features simplicity and reliance on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It originated as "cucina povera" (poor cuisine), utilizing inexpensive cuts effectively.
Ancient Roman traditions and a separate Jewish-Roman cooking style, especially in the Jewish Ghetto, add to its rich history.
Breakfast (7-10 AM) is light. Lunch (1-2:30 PM). Aperitivo (6-8 PM). Dinner (from 8 IN the evening onwards) is generally later.
Wait to be seated. Tipping is not obligatory, a few Euros for good service is appreciated. Some places include a "coperto" or "servizio".
Cappuccino is for morning only. Espresso is for any time, often standing at the bar (cheaper). Specify "naturale" (still) or "frizzante" (sparkling) water.
Cacio e Pepe (Pecorino Romano, black pepper, pasta water), Carbonara (guanciale, Pecorino, egg yolk, pepper, no cream), Amatriciana (guanciale, tomato, Pecorino), Gricia (white Amatriciana, no tomato).
A true taste of Roman tradition.
Carciofi allfrom Roman timesa (braised with herbs) and Carciofi alla Giudia (deep-fried, crispy, a Jewish Ghetto specialty).
Seasonal and flavorful.
Saltimbocca alla Romana (veal with prosciutto and sage), Coda alla Vaccinara (oxtail stew), Trippa alla Romana (tripe in tomato sauce).
Hearty, traditional Roman fare.
Italian ice cream. Look for "gelateria artigianale" for authentic, natural flavors.
Sweet buns filled with generous whipped cream, a traditional Roman pastry.
Rome has Michelin-starred restaurants (La Pergola, Il Pagliaccio) offering innovative and traditional Italian cuisine. Reservations are generally necessary well in advance.
Trattorias, osterias, and ristorantes across the city have traditional Roman dishes. Seek establishments a few blocks from tourist traps for better quality and value.
Affordable and delicious options are plentiful. Pizzerias al taglio, markets, and local bakeries are excellent choices for quick meals.
Historic outdoor market (Mon-Sat mornings) for fresh produce, flowers, and some food stalls. A lively atmosphere.
Historic, open-air market.
Indoor market with an array of food stalls, street food, fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. A food lover's paradise.
Modern, indoor food haven.
Many dishes adaptable; growing number of dedicated restaurants.
High awareness; many pizzerias/restaurants offer "senza glutine" options.
Readily available within the historic Jewish Ghetto.
Limited in mainstream, found in specific ethnic eateries.
A cherished pre-dinner ritual: purchase a something to drink and receive complimentary snacks or buffet access. Great for light meals and socializing.
A social pre-dinner experience.
Experience unique culinary traditions, offering a distinct flavor profile from mainstream Roman food.
Distinct historical flavors.
Rome offers a growing selection of international cuisine, notably in cosmopolitan areas and near Termini Station.
Participate in private cooking experiences often organized through platforms or local guides.
Artichokes, asparagus, and fresh fava beans feature prominently on menus. These ingredients are at their peak freshness.
Mushrooms, truffles, and chestnuts appear on menus, bringing rich, earthy flavors to Roman dishes.
Hearty stews, rich meat dishes, and traditional sweet breads mark the colder months.
Maintains an unique culinary tradition with dishes like Carciofi alla Giudia, distinct from mainstream Roman food.
A historic and distinct culinary style.
Dishes employing local produce from the surrounding Lazio region sometimes appear in city restaurants, emphasizing seasonality.
Farm-to-table inspiration.
Often paired with robust red wines like Cesanese del Piglio or a crisp, dry white wine for lighter dishes.
Lighter Lazio white wines, like Frascati Superiore, complement the delicate flavors of Roman seafood dishes.
Best enjoyed with a cold local beer or a light red wine. Simple pairings enhance the flavors.
Eating out in Rome is a cultural experience. Embrace the local pace and try new flavors.
