A Local’s Guide to Best Restaurants in Rome

men making pizza at pizzeria da baffetto Rome Italy
pizzeria da baffetto rome italy

When it comes to eating Italian food, there is the Holy Trinity to think about: pasta, pizza, and gelato.

Rome is the type of city where you can easily find a delicious restaurant around every corner -- my recommendations could be endless.  However, in the spirit of the Italian food Holy Trinity, I've included my "winners" in each category:

  • Ambasciata d’Abruzzo: Ready to try some out of this world pasta?  It was here I fell in love with lemon pasta and artichoke pasta.  Yup...I said artichoke!  The staff are friendly and the vibe is laidback and fun.  It’s a bit outside the main city, so it's a local spot, with relatively few tourists.

 

  • Pizzeria Da Baffetto:  The line is worth the wait.  If you’re not there when it opens at 6:30 (18:30), then be prepared to practice some patience, but I promise every yummy bite will be worth your time.  The owner is a no frills kind of guy, and he has no problem plopping you at a table with strangers to make room for everyone.  Be prepared to make new friends as you eat your meal.  

 

  • Old Bridge Gelateria: There is a gelato rivalry in Rome.  Giolitti is the most famous spot, but Old Bridge won my heart.  It’s near the Vatican -- grab a scoop and explore the Vatican piazza at night when no one is around. 
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