Rome captivates with its ancient ruins, grand piazzas, the Vatican, and the majestic Colosseum. History isn't just present; it's etched into every street. While these historical wonders might be your main reason for visiting, Rome's food is an equally compelling part of the journey. Imagine savoring the straightforward perfection of cacio e pepe pasta, delving into a comforting bowl of tripe stew, or cutting into crispy fried artichokes. Don't forget the creamy gelato and convenient pizza al taglio! Here, food isn't merely a meal; it's a deep dive into the city's vibrant history and culture. At Jetsettery, we took on the delicious challenge, dedicating a week in Rome to exploring countless gelato shops, pizzerias, and trattorias. Below is a list of our top picks. Make sure to experience them on your next trip to the Eternal City.

Gelato:

Fatamorgana (various locations around Rome) - Experimental flavors such as Basil, Walnut & Honey or Banana Cream with Sesame Brittle

Fior di Luna (Via della Lungaretta 96) – High-quality gelato with traditional flavors

Frigidarium (Via del Governo Vecchio 112) – Their namesake flavor is to-die-for: Caramel with cookies and chocolate!! And whatever ice cream you opt for, they’ll dip it in dark chocolate or white chocolate for free! It’s messy, but complete chocolate nirvana.

Gelateria dei Gracchi (Via dei Gracchi 272) – We have to admit that we didn’t have a chance to visit it, but it came highly recommended by friends, particularly for their Ricotta, Pear & Dark Chocolate Bar. It’s first on our hit-list next time we’re in Rome.

Il Gelato Bistro (Circonvallazione Trionfale,11) - Another traditional gelateria with a lovely owner who served us.

Pizza:

Dar Poeta (Vicolo del Bologna 45/46) - Sit-down restaurant with thin crust pizza served to you piping hot straight from a wood oven. High quality ingredients as well – the buffalo mozzarella was super creamy.

Pizzarium (Via della Meloria 43) - Probably our favorite pizza of the trip. Pizzarium serves “pizza al taglio” a rectangular type of pizza that Rome is famous for. Pizzarium’s version has a slightly thicker crust and unique flavor combinations such as spinach and goat cheese, roasted red pepper and fresh mozzarella. There’s no seating so it’s either take-away or grab one of the tiny stools outside and sit on the sidewalk. Gets super busy at lunchtime.

La Renella (Via Del Moro 15) - Pizza bakery (they also sell bread and a few cakes) serving thin crust pizza with a variety of rotating toppings. It’s sold by weight, so tell them what size you want and feel free to sample as much as you like. Good place to go for a quick slice, though you may get lucky and score a seat.

And the rest…

Nonna Betta (via Del Portico D’Ottavia 16) – Roman Jewish cuisine in the Jewish quarter. Carciofi alla guidia (“Jewish-style artichokes”) are a specialty and probably the best we’ve ever eaten anywhere. Tripe is also a favorite along with a chicory pasta dish.

Suppli (Via di San Francesco a Ripa 137) – Fried snacks including Rome’s famous suppli (fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and bolognese). Good for a quick pick-me-up or late night munchie.

La Norcineria Iacozzilli (Via Natale del Grande 15) – Get your porchetta fix here. Juicy, slow-roasted pork served on bread: yet another Roman specialty. Come early, as when it’s gone, it’s gone.

Osteria Der Belli (Piazza Santa Apollonia 9) – Classic pastas like cacio e pepe and carbonara, but seafood dishes as well.

Checco er Carettiere (Via Benedetta 10) – Old-school trattoria with beautiful meat dishes (ossobucco, ox tail stew), colorful antipasti, and of course, delicious traditional pasta dishes such as cheese cannelloni and spaghetti and meatballs.

Innocenti (Via Della Luce 21) - Family-owned bakery specializing in cookies and biscotti. Beautifully displayed and sold by weight. So mix and match and fill a bag to eat along with your cappuccino.

We hope you enjoyed all these Rome dining recommendations. It’s made us hungry just writing about it! If you are planning a trip to Rome or anywhere around the globe, know that Jetsettery is about making your trip unique and that includes finding you amazing places to eat - whether it be a simple pizzeria or a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Where to Eat in Rome?

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