Roman cuisine reflects the unique history and vibrant culture of this historic capital city – while showcasing the freshest ingredients around. Many of the best restaurants in Rome offer new twists on Italy’s most beloved dishes.
MICHELIN STARRED RESTAURANTS IN ROME
#1 Ristorante Enoteca La Torre
Lungotevere delle Armi, 22/23, 00195 Rome
Sinfully high ceilings and massive windows reflect the elegant aura of Ristorante Enoteca La Torre. Chef Domenico Stile attributes his success the many masters he studied under. The menu reflects his enthusiasm and diverse background, spanning from exotic plates of piglet “scagliuozzi” with mousse mustard and licorice to the milder retreat of lamb villeroy.
#2 La Pergola, Hilton Hotel
Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, 00136 Rome
The first, and only, 3-Starred establishment in Rome capitalizes on gorgeous rooftop views and the utmost of care for the customer. Executive Chef Heinz Beck is known worldwide for his constant creation of astonishing fusion cuisine. The fagottelli “La Pergola” is one of his best known dishes, followed by his fried zucchini flower on shellfish.
#3 Glass Osteria
Vicolo de’ Cinque, 58, 00153 Rome
Words like ‘sleek’, ‘modern’, and ‘distinctive’ best describe Glass Osteria, from decorative floor cutouts to interesting uses of lighting. Chef Christina Bowerman enjoys spontaneity and science in the kitchen, often rotating the menu to ensure customers don’t get bored. Her innovative flavor combinations include duck tartar to potato gnocchi with orange.
TRIPADVISOR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN ROME
#4 Cambiamenti Restaurant
Viale Furio Camillo, 66/68, 00181 Rome
Incredibly friendly and welcoming staff leave a good impression of Cambiamenti before one even receives the “freebies” like popcorn, olives, and candyfloss. The chefs and owners, Federico Cucchiarelli and Federico Silvi, strive to provide a farm-to-table experience to patrons. A crowd favorite is potato and saffron soup complimented by scrumptious handmade bread.
#5 Alfredo alla Scrofa
Via della Scrofa, 104/a, 00186 Rome
Alfredo alla Scrofa is arguably one of the best restaurants in Rome for a bowl of fettuccine alfredo, seeing as they came up with the dish in 1907. Pictures of famous actors line every wall, creating a historic and jovial atmosphere. Aside from the legendary fettuccine alfredo, one should spring for the squid salad.
#6 Roscioli Restaurant
Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, 00186 Rome
Pert deli, part restaurant, part wine bar – all Roscioli. A wide and varied menu has developed at the restaurant, from fried eggplant and pine nuts to spaghetti with tuna marrow. The Roscioli Brothers emphasize respectful and responsible sourcing in all of their materials, leading to rich and delicious meals that can change by the month.
ROME’S FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANTS
#7 Pizzeria La Montecarlo
Vicolo Savelli, 13, 00130 Rome
The motto: “Turn your phone off, it tampers with our brick oven.” But if you ask them why, they will tell you the table is no place for a phone, only face to face communication. La Montecarlo is a theatrical and whimsical place. The staff consists of three men; Carlo is the Boss, Carletto is the performer, and Little Mariccuio is the sarcastic poet. Together, they endeavor to bring flamboyancy to every order, be it pizza or pasta.
#8 Trattoria Sora Lella
Via di Ponte Quattro capi, 16, 00186 Rome
When in Rome, eat like the Romans. Sora Lella takes this phrase to heart, gracing customers with traditional Roman dishes such as oxtail and meatballs in sauce. Heritage is traced into every line of the cozy mom-and-pop restaurant, leaving patrons with a deep sense of Rome’s past.
#9 Yotvata Restaurant
Piazza Cenci, 70, 00186 Rome
The number of restaurants in Rome serving Jewish cuisine is surprising to many first-time visitors. Yotvata’s kitchen is strictly Kosher, producing its own cheeses to ensure wholesome dishes. High ceilings and stately archways in the dining area mix well with friendly and welcoming staff, inviting patrons back again and again. The chef recommends the salted cod with artichokes and the spaghetti cheese and pepper.
“Rome is as good as it gets, particularly when you throw in Italian food.” – Roger Federer