When you think of Rome, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For me, it’s not just the awe-inspiring Colosseum or the majestic Vatican. It’s the food. Glorious, mouthwatering food. I mean, let’s be real—Rome is a paradise for anyone who loves to eat. The city’s rich culinary history, combined with its local ingredients and traditional recipes, makes every meal feel like an experience. And if you’re anything like me, finding the best local restaurants in Rome is just as important as visiting the iconic sights.
So, let me take you on a journey through some of the best local restaurants in Rome that I’ve discovered. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this for your next trip to the Eternal City.
1. Trattoria Da Enzo al 29
Let’s kick things off with Trattoria Da Enzo al 29, a small gem in the Trastevere neighborhood. Picture this: It’s a balmy evening, and I’m strolling through the charming cobblestone streets, and suddenly, the aroma of garlic and fresh tomatoes hits me like a ton of bricks. I knew I had to follow that scent, and it led me straight to Da Enzo. This place is the real deal—no frills, just authentic Roman cuisine.
The menu is simple but oh-so-satisfying. I went for the classic Cacio e Pepe, and I’ve got to say, it was the creamiest, most peppery bowl of pasta I’ve ever had. They nailed that perfect balance of flavors. My tip? Get there early, or you’ll face a wait. But trust me, it’s worth every minute.
2. Osteria da Fortunata
If you’re a pasta lover (and really, who isn’t?), Osteria da Fortunata needs to be on your list. This cozy spot near Campo de’ Fiori is known for its homemade pasta, made fresh right in front of your eyes. Watching the nonnas (grandmothers) hand-roll the pasta is like watching a magic show where you know the secret, but it’s still mesmerizing every time.
I remember ordering the Tonnarelli alla Gricia—a lesser-known but equally amazing Roman dish with guanciale (cured pork cheek), pecorino cheese, and black pepper. It’s like the cousin of carbonara, but without the egg. The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the guanciale was crispy and salty in all the right ways. And the atmosphere? Rustic and charming, just like Rome itself.
3. Armando al Pantheon
Now, you can’t talk about Rome without mentioning the Pantheon. But did you know there’s a culinary treasure just a stone’s throw away? Armando al Pantheon is a family-run restaurant that’s been serving traditional Roman dishes since 1961. Yes, it’s close to a major tourist attraction, but don’t let that fool you—this place is all about authenticity.
On my last visit, I tried their Carciofi alla Romana (Roman-style artichokes) as a starter. These artichokes are a local specialty, slow-cooked in olive oil with garlic, mint, and parsley until they’re tender and flavorful. For the main course, I couldn’t resist the Abbacchio alla Cacciatora—succulent lamb cooked with rosemary, garlic, and white wine. Every bite was like a love letter to Roman culinary traditions.
4. Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina
Now, if you’re a foodie, you’ve probably heard of Roscioli. It’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a deli, a wine bar, and a full-on culinary experience. Located in the heart of Rome, just a short walk from Campo de’ Fiori, Roscioli is where you go when you want to indulge.
I’ll never forget my first visit. I was drawn in by the sight of prosciutto hanging from the ceiling and shelves stocked with an incredible selection of cheeses and cured meats. The menu is a treasure trove of Italian delights, but if you go, do yourself a favor and order the Spaghetti alla Carbonara. This dish is the stuff of legend—creamy, rich, and with just the right amount of pecorino Romano cheese. I paired it with a glass of Chianti, and I swear, time stood still for a moment.
5. Pizzeria da Remo
Okay, so you can’t go to Rome without having pizza. But forget about the tourist traps—if you want the real deal, head to Testaccio and check out Pizzeria da Remo. This place is all about the classic Roman-style pizza: thin, crispy crust with just the right amount of char from the wood-fired oven.
I went for a Margherita con Bufala, and it was everything I’d hoped for—simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious. The tomato sauce was tangy, the mozzarella was creamy, and the crust was the perfect combination of crunchy and chewy. This is the kind of pizza that ruins you for all other pizzas. And the best part? It’s totally affordable, so you can keep coming back for more.
6. La Pergola
If you’re looking to splurge a little (okay, a lot), La Pergola is the place to do it. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is located on the top floor of the Rome Cavalieri Hotel, offering stunning views of the city. It’s the kind of place where you dress up and prepare for a dining experience like no other.
I saved up for a special occasion and finally made a reservation here. The tasting menu is the way to go if you want to experience a bit of everything. One dish that still lingers in my memory is the Fagottelli “La Pergola”—a delicate pasta filled with pecorino cheese and finished with a truffle sauce. The flavors were so complex and refined, I didn’t want the meal to end. And yes, the views were as spectacular as the food.
7. Trattoria Monti
Trattoria Monti is one of those places that locals love but tourists often miss, which is why it’s one of my favorites. Tucked away in the Esquilino neighborhood, this family-run trattoria offers dishes from the Marche region, and it’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re eating in someone’s home.
The first time I ate there, I had the Tortino di Patate—a potato and cheese pie that was comfort food at its finest. For the main course, I opted for the Coniglio in Porchetta—rabbit cooked with wild fennel and garlic, and it was a revelation. The flavors were so rich and hearty, I felt like I was discovering a whole new side of Italian cuisine. If you want to eat like a local, this is where you should go.
8. Bonci Pizzarium
Now, let’s talk about pizza by the slice, or as the locals call it, “pizza al taglio.” Bonci Pizzarium, near the Vatican, is the go-to spot for this Roman street food staple. The slices here are nothing short of epic, with a thick, fluffy crust and a variety of toppings that range from classic to creative.
On my first visit, I tried a slice topped with potatoes, rosemary, and sausage—a combination that sounds simple but was out-of-this-world delicious. The crust was so light and airy, it practically melted in my mouth. And the best part? You can mix and match different slices, so you get to taste a little bit of everything. Just be warned—once you try Bonci’s pizza, you’ll be dreaming about it long after you’ve left Rome.
9. Hostaria Antica Roma
For a taste of history, quite literally, you can’t beat Hostaria Antica Roma. This restaurant is located along the Appian Way, one of the oldest roads in Rome, and the building itself dates back to ancient Roman times. Dining here feels like stepping back in time, and the food is just as historic.
One of their signature dishes is the Gnocchi alla Fornara, which is made using a recipe that’s over 2000 years old. It’s a simple dish of gnocchi baked with pecorino cheese, but the flavors are anything but simple. Every bite is rich and savory, with a slight tang from the cheese. I also tried their Straccetti di Manzo, thin slices of beef cooked with rosemary and garlic, and it was tender and full of flavor. If you’re a history buff who loves good food, this place is a must-visit.
10. Felice a Testaccio
Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about Felice a Testaccio. This restaurant has been a staple in the Testaccio neighborhood since 1936, and it’s famous for its Cacio e Pepe. I know I’ve already mentioned Cacio e Pepe, but trust me, the version here deserves a special shout-out.
When you order it, the server will mix the pasta right at your table, making sure every strand is coated in that creamy, peppery sauce. It’s pure pasta perfection. I also recommend trying their Polpette di Bollito, tender meatballs made from slow-cooked beef. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, and you’ve got the perfect Roman dinner.
Final Thoughts: Eat Like a Local in Rome
There you have it—my personal guide to the best local restaurants in Rome. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple bowl of pasta or an extravagant multi-course meal, Rome has something to satisfy every craving. The key is to embrace the local culture, take your time, and savor every bite. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you shouldn’t rush through its culinary wonders either.
One last tip: Don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path. Some of the best meals I’ve had in Rome were in tiny, unassuming trattorias that I stumbled upon by accident. So, go ahead—explore, indulge, and most importantly, enjoy.
Buon appetito!