After studying and working in Rome for several years, I can say I know the Eternal City neighborhood by neighborhood. My brother still lives there, and every time I visit, we spend hours walking through the backstreets, catching up, and—most importantly—discovering new places to eat.
Rome, for me, is synonymous with pasta, with slow Sunday lunches, with trattorias that still serve recipes the way nonna made them. If you’re wondering where to eat in Rome or what food not to miss in Rome, this guide is for you. Whether you want a quick pizza a taglio or a sit-down meal featuring Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe or Coda alla Vaccinara, these are the places I personally go back to—again and again.
Although all areas of the city are full of restaurants and takeaways, some of the best places to eat out in Rome are in the streets surrounding Trastevere, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and the Pantheon. These districts are packed with both historical charm and non-touristy restaurants that locals love.
Hostaria Da Corrado
Tucked away just a few steps from Piazza Navona, this small, no-frills hostaria is one of my favorite hidden gems in central Rome. The menu changes depending on what’s fresh, but if you’re lucky enough to find Abbacchio allo Scottadito or Carciofi alla Romana, don’t think twice. Friendly, old-school service and authentic Roman food without the crowds—this is the kind of spot that makes you fall in love with Rome all over again.
Via della Pelliccia, 39, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 580 6004
https://www.instagram.com/hostaria_da_corrado/?hl=en
Italian & Mediterranean Cuisine
Capo de Fero
In the heart of Trastevere, one of the best areas to eat in Rome, Capo de Fero is everything you want in a Roman trattoria: wooden tables, quick-witted servers, and a menu full of traditional Roman foods. Go for the Rigatoni alla Carbonara or Trippa alla Romana, and pair them with a carafe of house red wine. This is la vera Roma—the real Rome.
Via di San Cosimato 16, 00153 Rome Italy
+39 06 581 8038
Italian Cuisine & Seafood
Bottega Tredici
A more modern take on Roman cuisine, Bottega Tredici combines creativity with respect for tradition. The menu is seasonal, but their version of Pasta alla Gricia is worth a detour. If you’re looking for a stylish dinner in the heart of Rome with dishes that surprise and delight, this is a great pick. A perfect blend of innovation and heritage, ideal for food lovers looking to go beyond the classics.
Via dei Falegnami, 14 00186 Roma
+39.06.9211.8504
https://bottegatredici.it/en/
Italian Cuisine & Wine Bar
Alfredo alla Scrofa
This is the legendary home of Fettuccine Alfredo—yes, the real one. Touristy? A bit. But still worth a visit if you’re curious about the origins of one of the most famous pasta dishes in the world. Despite its fame, the atmosphere remains intimate, and if you’re seated in the original dining room lined with photos of old celebrities, you’ll feel a little piece of Roman history.
Via della Scrofa, 104/a, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 688 061 63
https://alfredoallascrofa.com/en/contatti/
Roman cuisine with a contemporary flare
Da Enzo al 29
Ask any Roman where to get a perfect plate of Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe or Bucatini all’Amatriciana, and chances are they’ll mention Da Enzo. Located in a quiet corner of Trastevere, this small and charming trattoria fills up quickly, so arrive early or book ahead. The Carciofi alla Giudia here are incredible, and the cicoria ripassata is just as it should be: garlicky, bitter, and satisfying. A must-visit for anyone seeking non-touristy food in Rome.
Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
+39 06 5812260
https://www.daenzoal29.com/
Roman Cuisine
Felice a Testaccio
No list of where to eat in Rome would be complete without Felice a Testaccio. This place is an institution—and Testaccio itself is one of the most genuine food neighborhoods in the city. Their Cacio e Pepe, mixed at the table, is legendary. Add a plate of Polpette, finish with a tiramisù, and you’ve had one of the best meals you’ll ever eat in Rome. Trust me.
Via Mastro Giorgio 29 Rome, Italy
+39 06.5746800
https://feliceatestaccio.com/en/
Roman Cuisine & Wine
Final Thoughts
So, what food is famous in Rome? The city’s culinary soul lies in its pastas—Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, Amatriciana, and Gricia—but also in its deep tradition of offal, vegetables, and bold, simple flavors. From Coda alla Vaccinara to Carciofi alla Giudia, these dishes are more than food—they’re history.
Whether you’re after elegance or a hearty plate of pasta in a busy trattoria, these spots represent the answer to what food not to miss in Rome, Italy. And if you want to avoid the crowds and experience the Eternal City like a local, this is the map I follow every time I’m back.
