Walking through the streets of Rome feels like stepping into a living museum, but for food lovers, it’s also a playground of flavors. Whether you’re after Michelin-starred refinement or the cozy charm of a local trattoria, Rome has a culinary experience for every palate. Here’s a guide to ten must-visit restaurants and cafés in Rome, featuring the latest hotspots and enduring classics in 2025.

La Pergola

Rome’s only three‑Michelin-star restaurant, perched atop the Rome Cavalieri, making it the perfect destination for a special-occasion meal. Guests can expect innovative Italian cuisine under Heinz Beck’s direction, paired with an extraordinary wine cellar and panoramic views across the city. The restaurant is open for dinner only from Tuesday to Saturday, and men are recommended to wear a jacket. It is located at Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101. Dining here is not just about food—it’s an experience where each dish is presented as a work of art, and the view of Rome at night adds to the magic.

Roscioli – Salumeria con Cucina

Part restaurant, and a true Roman institution. Their carbonara is beloved, but diners should also try the cured meats, cheeses, and explore the extensive wine list. The atmosphere is warm, relaxed, and authentically Roman, where locals and foodies mingle. Located at Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, near Campo de’ Fiori, Roscioli is the kind of place where you feel like part of the family from the moment you walk in, and each dish tells a story of Roman culinary tradition.

Glass Hostaria

Trastevere is a modern and creative spot where chef Cristina Bowerman brings a fresh, refined perspective to Italian cuisine. Diners can enjoy contemporary dishes in a chic setting, making it ideal for a stylish dinner after wandering Trastevere’s winding streets. Despite being Michelin-starred, it remains approachable and welcoming, and the bold flavor combinations invite even seasoned foodies to discover something new with every bite.

All’Oro

Located in the Parioli neighborhood, is a one-star Michelin restaurant that offers a gourmet experience without the formality of La Pergola. Their reinterpretation of Italian classics focuses on seasonal, high-quality ingredients, giving guests a taste of innovative yet approachable Italian cuisine. The intimate ambiance makes it feel like a hidden gem, where you can savor each dish at your own pace and truly appreciate the chef’s artistry.

Aroma

Provides a dining experience that cannot be beaten for ambiance, offering stunning views of the Colosseum. It is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, especially at sunset when the monument is bathed in golden light, complementing the refined menu. Dining here feels cinematic, as if the city’s history itself is part of the plate, and each bite is enhanced by the breathtaking scenery.

Da Enzo al 29

True Roman trattoria in Trastevere, known for not taking reservations, which makes dining there a part of the adventure. Guests should try the classic Roman pasta dishes, stews, and other simple yet perfectly executed comfort foods, and arriving for lunch often makes it easier to secure a table. The restaurant captures the essence of Roman home cooking, with recipes passed down for generations and flavors that feel both timeless and comforting.

Mercato Testaccio

Visitors can indulge in supplì, small sandwiches, and other seasonal Roman flavors while soaking in the lively, local atmosphere. The market is also a great place to interact with Roman chefs and vendors, learning about traditional recipes and discovering unique ingredients that make the city’s cuisine so authentic. Exploring Mercato Testaccio is like taking a culinary walking tour in one location, where every stall has a story and a flavor to share.

Pasticceria Boccione

An old-school kosher bakery that has been around since 1815, offering historical charm and exceptional baked goods. Their sour cherry‑ricotta tart and pizza ebraica, a sweet bread with candied fruits and nuts, are local legends. The atmosphere is cozy and historical, tucked away in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, and every pastry feels like a small piece of Rome’s rich culinary history, made with care and tradition.

Antico Caffè Greco

Founded in 1760 and located on Via dei Condotti, is one of Rome’s oldest cafés. Its cultural pedigree includes patrons such as Goethe, Byron, Keats, and Liszt, making it steeped in artistic history. Guests can enjoy a classic espresso or cappuccino, paired with a pastry, while soaking in the café’s timeless atmosphere. Sitting here, you feel connected to centuries of creatives who once plotted their masterpieces over coffee, making it a truly inspirational stop.

Ercoli 1928

Historic “bottega” turned deli-restaurant, exemplifying the recent revival of artisanal Roman food spots. Guests can shop for high-quality Italian meats and cheeses while also sitting down to enjoy a meal, experiencing a truly Roman and artisanal dining experience. With multiple locations, including in Trastevere, Ercoli 1928 offers a glimpse into the city’s culinary past while celebrating the best of contemporary flavors, making it a must-visit for any foodie.

Final Thoughts

Rome is more than a city of ancient monuments and stunning architecture—it’s a living, breathing food capital where every meal is an experience. From the refined elegance of La Pergola to the bustling energy of Mercato Testaccio, each restaurant and café offers a unique glimpse into Roman culinary culture. Whether you’re savoring traditional pasta, exploring artisanal markets, or enjoying pastries steeped in history, the city’s flavors are as rich and layered as its streets. A true foodie’s journey in Rome is about more than just eating—it’s about immersing yourself in the stories, traditions, and passions behind every dish. Bring your appetite, your curiosity, and a sense of adventure, and Rome will reward you with memories that linger long after the last bite.

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