Must-Try Classic Roman Dishes
Prepare to be seduced by the simplicity and boldness of classic Roman fare. The beauty of Roman cooking lies in its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-tested techniques. These are the dishes that have shaped Roman culinary identity, and no trip to Rome is complete without experiencing them.
Pasta
Let’s begin with pasta, the cornerstone of Italian gastronomy. Rome boasts a trinity of pasta dishes so iconic, so deeply rooted in the city’s culture, that they are practically mandatory eating.
First, there’s Cacio e Pepe, a seemingly simple dish that requires masterful execution. It’s just pasta (usually tonnarelli or spaghetti), pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water, but the magic happens in the emulsification of the cheese and water to create a creamy, coating sauce. When done right, it’s a revelation of peppery, cheesy perfection. For a truly exceptional Cacio e Pepe experience, try Roma Sparita in Trastevere, renowned for its creamy, perfectly balanced rendition served in a Parmesan cheese basket. Another great option is Felice a Testaccio for its authentic versions.
Next, we delve into the creamy depths of Carbonara. Forget any versions you’ve had with cream – the true Carbonara is made with guanciale (cured pork cheek), eggs (yolks are key), pecorino romano cheese, and black pepper. The richness of the guanciale and the sharp tang of the pecorino create an explosion of flavor that is both comforting and decadent. Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina offers a sublime Carbonara that uses only the highest quality ingredients. For a more traditional, less touristy option, consider Da Danilo.
Lastly, we have Amatriciana, a bold and flavorful pasta dish that hails from the town of Amatrice, just outside of Rome. It features guanciale, tomato sauce (San Marzano tomatoes are preferred), pecorino romano cheese, and a touch of chili pepper. The sauce is rich, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Flavio al Velavevodetto offers a stunning Amatriciana with the pasta cooked to perfection.
Pizza
Rome’s pizza scene is just as captivating. Two main styles dominate: Pizza Romana and Pizza al Taglio. Pizza Romana is known for its thin, crispy crust, often cooked in a wood-fired oven. The crust is light and airy, allowing the toppings to shine. Pizza al Taglio, meaning “pizza by the slice,” is a street food staple. It’s baked in large rectangular trays and sold by weight, offering an endless array of toppings.
For Pizza Romana, head to Pizzarium Bonci, a legendary pizzeria where Gabriele Bonci, the “Michelangelo of Pizza,” creates incredibly inventive and flavorful pizzas with seasonal ingredients. Expect a line, but it’s worth the wait. Emma Pizzeria con Cucina is also a great option for a more upscale Pizza Romana experience.
When it comes to Pizza al Taglio, you’ll find countless options throughout the city. Look for places that use fresh, high-quality ingredients and bake their pizzas frequently. Forno Campo de’ Fiori is a historic bakery that offers excellent Pizza al Taglio, as does Antico Forno Roscioli.
Meat Dishes
Roman cuisine extends beyond pasta and pizza, offering hearty and flavorful meat dishes that reflect the region’s agricultural heritage.
Saltimbocca, meaning “jumps in the mouth,” is a classic Roman dish made with veal scallopine, prosciutto, and sage, all pan-fried in butter and white wine. The combination of the savory veal, salty prosciutto, and fragrant sage is simply divine. Armando al Pantheon serves a classic Saltimbocca that is always perfectly cooked and incredibly flavorful.
Abbacchio alla Scottadito, grilled lamb chops, is another Roman favorite, particularly popular during Easter. The lamb is seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and rosemary, and grilled over high heat until perfectly charred and juicy. “Scottadito” translates to “burn your fingers,” a testament to how irresistible these lamb chops are. Da Felice a Testaccio is known for its excellent Abbacchio alla Scottadito.
Coda alla Vaccinara, oxtail stew, is a quintessential Roman dish that showcases the city’s cucina povera (poor cooking) tradition. The oxtail is slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs, resulting in a tender, flavorful stew that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. Checchino dal 1887 is a historic restaurant that specializes in Coda alla Vaccinara, and it’s considered one of the best places in Rome to try this dish.
Fried Specialities
No exploration of Roman cuisine is complete without indulging in some fried delicacies. These are perfect snacks or appetizers, capturing the spirit of Roman street food.
Supplì are fried rice balls, typically filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella. These are a must-try Roman street food. Trapizzino offers excellent supplì, alongside its signature sandwiches.
Fiori di zucca fritti (fried zucchini flowers) are a seasonal delicacy, typically available in the spring and summer. The delicate zucchini flowers are battered and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. You can find this at many restaurants during the season.
Filetti di Baccalà, or fried cod fillets, are another Roman specialty. The cod is coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy. Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara is dedicated to this dish.
Beyond the Classics: Exploring Other Roman Delights
While the classic dishes are essential, Rome’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, offering a diverse range of experiences beyond the traditional trattorias.
Street Food
Rome’s street food scene is vibrant and exciting.
Trapizzino, a triangular pocket of pizza bianca filled with slow-cooked meats, is a modern Roman street food sensation. Trapizzino has multiple locations throughout the city.
Of course, no trip to Rome is complete without indulging in Gelato. Look for artisanal gelaterias that use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Giollitti and Fatamorgana are just a couple of great options.
Markets
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rome’s markets, where you can sample local products and experience the city’s culinary culture firsthand.
Mercato di Campo de’ Fiori is a historic market that offers a wide variety of produce, cheese, meats, and other local specialties. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere and sample some of the best Rome food. Be prepared for the crowds.
Testaccio Market is another excellent option, known for its authentic Roman feel and its many food stalls. It’s a great place to try traditional Roman dishes and sample local street food.
Trastevere’s Culinary Scene
Trastevere is a charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and lively atmosphere. It’s also a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse range of restaurants, from traditional trattorias to trendy bistros.
While Trastevere is known for having tourist traps, there are still some hidden gems where you can experience true Roman food. Roma Sparita (mentioned above) and Da Enzo al 29 are good choices but expect to wait in line.
Regional Specialities
While you are in Rome, you can also enjoy Lazio regional specialities.
Gnocchi alla Romana are semolina dumplings baked with parmesan cheese.
Vignarola is a spring vegetable stew featuring broad beans, peas, and artichokes.
Porchetta is a savory roasted pork dish.
Tips for Eating Like a Local
To truly experience the best Rome food, it’s important to dine like a local.
Dining Etiquette
Romans typically eat lunch around 1:00 PM and dinner around 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM. Tipping is not expected in Rome, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (a few euros) for good service. Learn a few basic Italian phrases to order food and interact with restaurant staff.
Finding Authentic Restaurants
Seek out restaurants that are popular with locals and avoid places with menus in multiple languages. Read online reviews from locals and venture off the main tourist streets to discover hidden gems.
Budget-Friendly Eating
Take advantage of aperitivo, where you can enjoy complimentary snacks with your drinks. Eat at markets and street food stalls, and look for menu turistico deals (but be cautious, as the quality can vary).
In Conclusion
Rome’s culinary landscape is a tapestry woven with tradition, innovation, and a deep love for fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the iconic pasta dishes to the vibrant street food scene, Rome offers a culinary adventure for every palate. So, ditch the tourist traps, embrace the local culture, and embark on a delicious journey to discover the best Rome food. Rome is a city that tantalizes the taste buds at every corner, where the best food memories are waiting to be made. Embrace the culinary culture, explore hidden gems, and you’ll discover that the best Rome food is an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the Eternal City.
