Italy´s capital is famous not only for its impressive historical and cultural legacy but also for its rich and delicious local cuisine. La cucina romana is a testament to tradition, fresh ingredients, and a passion for food. Rome delivers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in an avalanche of deliciousness, and in this post we’ll not only take you on a discovery tour of the city’s most iconic dishes, but also some recommended restaurants that will ensure a memorable dining experience.
Pasta: The Soul of Rome
Nowhere in Italy is pasta the heart of local cuisine as Rome, and here it´s prepared in a simple but delicious way; these are some of its most iconic dishes:
Cacio e Pepe
Its name means “cheese and black pepper” in Roman dialect, with the cheese in question being hard sheepsmilk pecorino. Served mixed with spaghetti, this combination creates a harmonious blend of flavors that you will relish. To savour an authentic cacio e pepe, we recommend the 104-year-old Osteria da Fortunata in the atmospheric old Trastevere neighbourhood, where fresh handmade pasta is the specialty and this dish is a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Carbonara
One of Rome’s most iconic dishes, made with eggs, guanciale (salt-cured pork cheeks), pecorino, and pepper. This recipe doesn’t use cream, unlike versions you might find outside of Italy. If you’re looking to try one of the best carbonaras in town, be sure to visit Armando al Pantheon, just steps from the iconic eponymous Roman temple-turned-church. Here the recipe is strictly adhered to, and the flavor is simply irresistible.
Amatriciana
With its roots in the beautiful Lazio town of Amatrice, from which it also takes its name, this dish combines pasta, guanciale, tomato, and pecorino. The contrast of flavours between the savory guanciale and the sweetness of the tomato makes it a must-try. For a quality amatriciana, Trastevere´s samll, cosy trattoria Da Enzo al 29 is one of the most recommended, where the traditional recipe shines with its authenticity and every bite is a delight.
Antipasti: The Kickoff to Great Meal
Literally meaning “before pasta”, these small bites are perfect for whetting your appetite and enjoy a variety of flavours. Here are two not to miss:
Supplì
Fried rice croquettes stuffed with mozzarella are a Roman tradition. When you break them open, the melted mozzarella forms a delicious “surprise”. And if you’re near the Vatican and want to try some delicious suppli, bring your appetite to Pizzarium. In addition to their tasty pizzas by the slice, their suppli are a true delight, made with fresh, quality ingredients.
Carciofi alla Romana
The artichoke is another ingredient that defines Roman cuisine, and braised in olive oil, herbs, and garlic, it’s one of the freshest and tastiest antipasti in the city. To enjoy excellent and authentic Roman carciofi, head to La Tavernaccia da Bruno in the southwestern Roman neighbourhood of Testaccio, a neighborhood known for its authentic traditional cuisine.
Main Dishes: Meat and More Meat
Roman cuisine is also famous for its savoury meat dishes, such as:
Abbacchio alla Romana
This is lamb dish, a springtime classic, is cooked with rosemary, garlic, white wine, and olive oil. Flavio al Velavevodetto, also located Testaccio, is the ideal place to sample an excellent rendering of this iconic Roman dish.
Saltimbocca alla Romana
“Jump in the mouth” consists of veal or chicken covered with prosciutto and cooked with white wine and sage, creating a perfectly balanced combination of flavours. For a ravishing version of this classic, Trattoria Monti in the Esquilino neighborhood in the east of central Rome, is an excellent choice. Here saltimbocca is prepared with fresh ingredients and a touch of authenticity that will make you feel right at home.
The Perfect Sweet Finish
Here are two you´ve heard of and one perhaps you haven´t:
Tiramisù
Although originally from northern Italy´s Veneto region, “Pick Me Up” is very popular here in Rome, a mix of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa which never goes out of style. One of the city´s best spots to enjoy it is Pompi near the Spanish Steps, a traditional pastry shop which opened its doors in 1960.
Maritozzo con la Panna
A soft, oblong bun filled with whipped cream, it’s especially popular during Lent but available year-round. And the perfect place to savour it is Pasticceria Regoli, known for its artisanal pastries and serving serving Romans and visitors in Esquilino since 1916.
Gelato
Because of the way it´s made, one of Italy´s most iconic sweets is (or should be) smoother, creamier, and richer than most other types of ice cream, and Rome´s gelaterie offer a wide variety of flavours – both traditional and innovative – that will leave you wanting more. Some of the most noteworthy include 125-year-old Giolitti (near the Pantheon) and Fassi (Rome´s most venerable, founded in 1880 in Esquilino), along with the newer Gelateria del Teatro (near the Piazza Navona), and Frigidarium (Trastevere).
Mouth watering? Book a flight to Rome with us and dig in!