A pizzaria in the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome. — *Later in this post I share a few affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you click on them and make a purchase, at no cost to you. I really appreciate your support!*

ROME’S RESTAURANT SCENE IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AT WORK.

If you consult any of the largest U.S. newspapers or magazines, they all seem to recommend the same handful of restaurants in Rome.

Ristorante Nino is consistently praised, and maybe you’ve also come across a glowing review for Rocco Ristorante.

Now imagine my surprise when Roman locals and my own hotel concierge told me that no, they would never recommend these restaurants that are at the top of most U.S. publications lists? 😱

INSTEAD OF RELYING ON THESE TOP NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES, I DECIDED TO BUILD MY OWN LIST OF AUTHENTIC RESTAURANTS IN ROME.

Below, my list of the best local restaurants in Rome, for those travelers who want to have an authentic dining experience in the Eternal city.

Why Should Travelers Seek Out Hidden Gem Restaurants in Rome?

LET ME BE CLEAR, I’M NOT SAYING THAT ALL RESTAURANTS THAT APPEAR IN MAJOR NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES ARE NECESSARILY BAD OR SUBPAR.

But you should understand how most of them get into those publications in the first place.

Restaurants have their own lingo, and one of the terms they use is “PX”, or “personne extraordinaire”. 💎

It refers to VIPs like restaurant critics, food and travel writers, and magazine editors.

Restaurants highlight everything about PX guests to their staff to ensure that they receive the best service and food possible.

They get the best table and the top server, and all of their orders are marked with “PX” so that the kitchen can ensure that only the finest dishes are taken to their table.

SO WHEN A JOURNALIST OR EDITOR IS RAVING ABOUT A RESTAURANT THEY ATE AT IN ROME, KNOW THAT THEY ARE PROBABLY TELLING THE TRUTH ABOUT HOW FABULOUS IT WAS - FOR THEM.

The issue for travelers who take their advice is that they are not a VIP, and will not receive the same over-the-top attention.

IT COMES DOWN TO CONSISTENCY.

Hidden gem restaurants in Rome, on the other hand, deliver reliably delicious food and memorable experiences night after night, regardless of VIP status 😉.

Rome’s Hidden Gem Restaurants

Top Experiences in Rome

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🔍 Discovery | Learn more about your destination

🤝 Connection | Meet locals, learn a craft, and trade stories

🎭 Performance | Immerse yourself in the local art and culture

Rooftop Bar Opera Show

🚌 Excursion | Explore nearby places of interest

🚀 Adventure | Seek thrill and excitement in the great outdoors

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Trattoria Vecchia Roma

THIS POPULAR LOCAL FAVORITE IS FOUND IN THE HEART OF ROME'S ESQUILINO DISTRICT.

Trattoria Vecchia Roma began in 1916 as a humble "vini e olii” where Romans could socialize and enjoy good wine, until 1936 when the Colangeli family began serving more substantial Roman cuisine.

Among the restaurant’s most famed dishes are its amatriciana flambé, prepared directly inside a pecorino bowl, as well as their take on carbonara and fried zucchini flowers.

Guests rave about the generous portions, fantastic house wines, and good value for money.

THE SERVICE IS WARM AND FRIENDLY, AND THE RESTAURANT’S INTERIOR IS COZY AND WELL DECORATED.

Just be aware that Trattoria Vecchia Roma is a bustling eatery that can be a little loud sometimes.

As a popular restaurant with locals and visitors alike, reservations are essential in order to avoid the queue.

L'Antica Birreria Peroni

Not far from the Trevi Fountain, L'Antica Birreria Peroni wows patrons with its Italian beer hall ambiance and classic Roman fare.

IF YOU’RE A BEER LOVER WHO FEELS OUT OF PLACE IN THE WINE-SOAKED EATERIES OF ITALY, THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU!

The menu suggests beer pairing, and there are multiple varieties of birra alla spina, or beer on tap.

L'Antica Birreria Peroni is popular with locals, and the atmosphere can get quite lively at times.

But the kitchen remains open all day, making it a great spot to grab a late lunch, after the peak dining hours.

JUST BE AWARE THAT A QUEUE OFTEN BEGINS FORMING OUTSIDE A LITTLE BEFORE SEVEN IN THE EVENINGS.

The menu features hearty meat courses in addition to the classic pastas that are a mainstay of Roman restaurants.

The service is friendly and swift, even though service may not always be in English, and prices are reasonable.

L'Antica Birreria Peroni is an authentic Roman eatery for those seeking hearty dishes and good beer.

Trattoria Luzzi

On a side street just a short walk from the Colosseum, Trattoria Luzzi offers diners a cozy and welcoming environment.

The interior is simple and unassuming, while the menu boasts a range of Roman specialties with a homestyle preparation.

GUESTS RAVE ABOUT THEIR CARBONARA AND WOOD-FIRED PIZZAS.

Trattoria Luzzi is known for its affordable prices and generous portions and the service is warm and attentive.

If you’re looking for an authentic and budget-friendly Roman meal, Trattoria Luzzi is a great choice.

Emma Pizzeria

NOT FAR FROM CAMPO DE' FIORI, EMMA PIZZERIA IS RENOWNED FOR ITS PIZZA, WHICH MANY CLAIM TO BE THE BEST IN ROME.

The restaurant’s interior is modern and spacious, though most visitors will likely prefer a spot on their shaded patio during the summer months.

Their Napoli and Margherita pizzas are standouts, but don’t pass up the chance to try their supplì, fried balls of rice filled with mozzarella that are Rome’s answer to the Sicilian arancini.

Emma Pizzeria is an upscale restaurant, but prices are generally moderate.

(If you’re looking for more casual pizzarias, there are a couple further down the list.)

THIS IS A MUST-VISIT FOR THOSE WHO WANT GREAT SERVICE AND MOUTH-WATERING PIZZA IN A GREAT LOCATION.

Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina

Right around the corner from Emma Pizzeria is Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina, a combined deli and restaurant experience lauded for its cacio e pepe.

The interior features shelves lined with gourmet products and tables nestled right beside a deli case filled with artisanal cheeses.

IN ADDITION TO PASTA HIGHLIGHTS LIKE THE AFOREMENTIONED CACIO E PEPE AND CARBONARI, THEIR MENU OFFERS A SELECTION OF ITALIAN CHEESE AND CURED MEATS.

Prices are on the higher side at Roscioli Salumeria, owing in part to the quality and provenance of their ingredients.

The service is knowledgeable and attentive, especially when it comes to wine pairing recommendations.

Because the restaurant is small and in high-demand, reservations at Roscioli Salumeria are essential, and should be made well in advance.

💡 PRO TIP, for those who aren’t able to get into Roscioli Salumeria: Their sister eatery, Rimessa Roscioli, is an easier table to score, plus they offer a fantastic wine tasting dinner that is a special experience that will connect you to other travelers and improve your wine knowledge.

Hostaria Romana

JUST A SHORT WALK FROM THE SPANISH STEPS, HOSTARIA ROMANA IS A TRADITIONAL EATERY THAT HAS BEEN SERVING LOCALS AND TOURISTS ALIKE FOR DECADES.

The interior is compact and unique, and some rooms are adorned with wall graffiti etched on the walls by past guests.

The menu features classic Roman dishes, and guests routinely rave about the pasta with mussels, carbonara, and roasted chicken with peppers.

Prices are moderate, and the service is lauded for its warmth and attentiveness.

BECAUSE HOSTARIA ROMANA IS BELOVED BY LOCALS, RESERVATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL, AND IT’S NOT UNCOMMON TO SEE LONG QUEUES ON ANY GIVEN NIGHT.

Pizza Zizza

PIZZA ZIZZA IS A TRUE HIDDEN GEM NOT FAR FROM THE VATICAN AND ITS MUSEUMS.

It would be easy to walk past its unassuming facade, but this casual and budget-friendly eatery is a must-visit for pizza lovers.

The menu offers a variety of pizza options, like the spicy Diavola and classic Margherita, and local beers to pair them with.

Guests also rave about the attentive and explanatory service, a surprise at such a casual spot.

PIZZA ZIZZA IS A GREAT SPOT FOR A QUICK AND DELICIOUS MEAL AFTER A DAY OF SIGHTSEEING AROUND VATICAN CITY.

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Trattoria Sora Lella

LOCATED ON THE PICTURESQUE TIBER ISLAND, TRATTORIA SORA LELLA IS A HISTORIC RESTAURANT KNOWN FOR ITS AUTHENTIC ROMAN CUISINE.

The classic interior is warm and inviting, with terra cotta floors and exposed beams overhead.

The menu features a range of traditional dishes, with highlights such as the rigatoni con la pajata (rigatoni with tripe) and coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew).

And don’t forget to try a maritozzo for dessert!

PRICES ARE A BIT ON THE HIGH SIDE, THOUGH, OWING TO THE QUALITY OF THE INGREDIENTS AND, PROBABLY, THE RESTAURANT'S UNIQUE LOCATION.

As with most of the restaurants on this list, reservations are essential, so be sure to book in advance.

Taverna Trilussa

NESTLED IN THE VIBRANT TRASTEVERE NEIGHBORHOOD, TAVERNA TRILUSSA IS PERHAPS BEST KNOWN FOR SERVING ITS PASTA DISHES DIRECTLY IN STEEL SKILLET PANS.

The interiors are adorned with mementos, artworks, and carving stands full of different prosciutto varieties, while the outdoor patio has a relaxed vibe perfect for summer nights.

The menu offers a variety of Roman specialties, with standout dishes like the fried artichokes and pasta all'amatriciana.

Prices are on the higher side, mostly due to the quality and portion sizes, and the service is known to be friendly and efficient.

TAVERNA TRILUSSA OFFERS A MEMORABLE DINING EXPERIENCE IN ONE OF ROME'S MOST LIVELY DISTRICTS, BUT BE SURE TO RESERVE AHEAD OF TIME IN ORDER TO SCORE A TABLE.

Alfredo e Ada

TUCKED AWAY IN THE PIAZZA NAVONA DISTRICT OF ROME, ALFREDO E ADA IS A SMALL, FAMILY-RUN TRATTORIA.

The intimate interior, with just a handful of tables, has a cozy atmosphere.

The concise menu is a study in Italian cuisine, with a fantastic lasagna and one of the best versions of pasta all’amatricianas in Rome.

The service is personal and prompt, and prices are reasonable.

FOR AN INTIMATE AND AUTHENTIC MEAL, ALFREDO E ADA OFFERS ONE OF THE MOST CHARMING TABLES IN ROME.

Pizzeria Nuovo Mondo

LOCATED OFF THE BEATEN PATH IN ROME'S TESTACCIO NEIGHBORHOOD, PIZZERIA NUOVO MONDO IS A FAVORITE AMONG LOCALS FOR ITS TRADITIONAL ROMAN-STYLE PIZZAS.

The best seat here is on the outdoor patio, which runs parallel to the restaurant.

The menu highlights include the classic Margherita and the Quattro Stagioni, both showcasing the pizzeria's commitment to authentic flavors.

Pizzeria Nuovo Mondo is a local restaurant, and while they may have an English menu, expect service to be mostly in Italian.

THIS IS A BUDGET-FRIENDLY PIZZA SHOP, EXCELLENT FOR THOSE WHO WANT QUALITY WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK.

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Hostaria I Buoni Amici Roma

Just around the corner from the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Hostaria I Buoni Amici welcomes diners with classic Roman dishes.

Menu standouts include the seafood risotto, pasta carbonara, and tiramisu.

THE SERVICE IS FRIENDLY AND ATTENTIVE, AND PRICES ARE REASONABLE.

I Buoni Amici Roma is a great choice for those seeking a genuine dining experience, but again, try to make reservations to ensure a table.

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Osteria dell'Angelo

IN THE NORTHERN PRATI NEIGHBORHOOD, OSTERIA DELL'ANGELO SERVES DISHES PREPARED FOLLOWING TRADITIONAL ROMAN RECIPES.

The restaurant’s distinctive interiors are decorated with rugby memorabilia from the owner’s days playing the sport.

There is also a small patio for outdoor seating.

They offer a fixed, three course menu which includes an antipasto, a pasta, and an entree, which offers good value for the money, along with a great selection of pizzas.

THIS IS AN AUTHENTIC, FAMILY-RUN RESTAURANT THAT OFFERS AN AUTHENTIC ROMAN DINING EXPERIENCE NEAR CASTEL SANT'ANGELO.

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Pierluigi

TUCKED AWAY IN PIAZZA DE' RICCI, PIERLUIGI IS A RENOWNED SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN THE CENTER OF ROME.

The refined interior features white clothed tables and chic accent lighting.

The menu is an ode to fresh seafood, and highlights include the baked sea bass and linguine with lobster.

The service is top notch, and the ingredients are fresh and high quality, so brace yourself for prices on the high end.

PIERLUIGI IS A SENSORY EXPERIENCE, AND A MUST-VISIT FOR SEAFOOD LOVERS WHO ENJOY UPSCALE RESTAURANTS AND IMPECCABLE WINE LISTS.

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Conclusion

FINDING HIDDEN RESTAURANTS IN ROME CAN FEEL LIKE A DAUNTING TASK, BUT WITH THIS LIST YOU’LL BE WELL ON YOUR WAY TO FINDING DELICIOUS AND MEMORABLE MEALS.

A few things to remember about dining in Rome, though:

Always try to make reservations. Rome is a big city, and there will always be competition for the best tables at dinner time.
Most restaurants will speak basic English.
Ask your hotel concierge to make reservations on your behalf if you don’t feel comfortable calling the restaurant yourself.
Check the types of payments accepted. When making a reservation, confirm that the restaurant accepts your preferred payment method like credit cards or American Express.
Rome has come a long way over the past ten years in its adoption of credit card payments, and most restaurants and cafés today accept credit cards.
There are always holdouts, though, so if you’re unsure, be sure to take some cash.
Tipping culture in Italy is to only leave a euro or two as a symbolic thank you. There’s no need to leave a percentage-based tip like we do in the U.S.
Some websites will tell you to tip 10% in Rome, but that’s over the top.
Carry a few euro or 2 euro coins with you, and leave them on the table on your way out the door.

AND FINALLY, IF YOU’RE EVER AT A LOSS FOR WHAT TO ORDER, THE FOUR TRADITIONAL PASTA DISHES OF ROME ARE THE PERFECT INSPIRATION.

They are, in no particular order: Cacio e Pepe, Pasta alla Gricia, Carbonara, and Pasta all’amatriciana. 🍝🤌😋

Buon appetito,

Angela

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YOU’LL ALSO LOVE…

Rome’s Hidden Gem Restaurants

Why Should Travelers Seek Out Hidden Gem Restaurants in Rome?

Rome’s Hidden Gem Restaurants

Table of Contents

Top Experiences in Rome

Trattoria Vecchia Roma

L'Antica Birreria Peroni

Trattoria Luzzi

Emma Pizzeria

Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina

Hostaria Romana

Pizza Zizza

Trattoria Sora Lella

Taverna Trilussa

Alfredo e Ada

Pizzeria Nuovo Mondo

Hostaria I Buoni Amici Roma

Osteria dell'Angelo

Pierluigi

Conclusion

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