Rome, the Eternal City, is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. The city’s culinary tradition is rich and varied, with dishes that have been perfected over centuries. Here are ten traditional Roman dishes you absolutely must try, along with some of the best places to savor them.
1. Pasta alla Carbonara
This iconic Roman pasta dish is made with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.
Where to try it: Roscioli (Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22) – A trendy restaurant and deli known for their perfectly creamy carbonara.
2. Cacio e Pepe
A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with pecorino romano cheese and black pepper.
Where to try it: Da Felice (Via Mastro Giorgio, 29) – A local favorite in the Testaccio neighborhood, famous for their cacio e pepe.
3. Supplì
These fried rice balls stuffed with mozzarella and meat ragù are a popular Roman street food.
Where to try it: Supplizio (Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 143) – A tiny shop dedicated to supplì, offering both traditional and creative versions.
4. Saltimbocca alla Romana
Veal cutlets topped with prosciutto and sage, then cooked in white wine.
Where to try it: Armando al Pantheon (Salita dei Crescenzi, 31) – A historic restaurant serving classic Roman cuisine near the Pantheon.
5. Carciofi alla Giudia
Jewish-style artichokes, deep-fried until crispy and golden.
Where to try it: Nonna Betta (Via del Portico d’Ottavia, 16) – An excellent kosher restaurant in the Jewish Ghetto, specializing in this dish.
6. Trippa alla Romana
Tripe cooked with tomato sauce, mint, and pecorino cheese – a true Roman delicacy.
Where to try it: Checchino dal 1887 (Via di Monte Testaccio, 30) – A historic restaurant known for its offal dishes.
7. Pizza al Taglio
Roman-style pizza sold by weight, with a variety of toppings.
Where to try it: Antico Forno Roscioli (Via dei Chiavari, 34) – A bakery offering some of the best pizza al taglio in Rome.
8. Pasta all’Amatriciana
A pasta dish with a sauce made from guanciale, pecorino cheese, and tomatoes.
Where to try it: Da Enzo (Via dei Vascellari, 29) – A small trattoria in Trastevere known for its excellent amatriciana.
9. Abbacchio alla Romana
Roasted lamb with herbs and potatoes, traditionally eaten during Easter.
Where to try it: Flavio al Velavevodetto (Via di Monte Testaccio, 97) – A restaurant in Testaccio that serves this dish year-round.
10. Gelato
While not exclusively Roman, no trip to Rome is complete without indulging in some artisanal gelato.
Where to try it: Gelateria del Teatro (Via dei Coronari, 65) – Known for using high-quality, natural ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
Remember, part of the joy of dining in Rome is discovering your own favorite spots. Don’t be afraid to explore and try dishes at local trattorias off the beaten path. Buon appetito!