What to Eat in Rome: Classic Dishes to Try

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From classic pasta dishes to tasty street food. Rome offers you a culinary experience that is rooted in tradition. Whether you’re sitting down at a local trattoria or grabbing a quick snack. This guide breaks down must-try foods for you during your time at Rome.

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Pasta Dishes

Carbonara

Roman Carbonara is a rich, creamy dish—without any actual cream. Made with just four ingredients— eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper. Spaghetti or rigatoni are the most common choices. Skip versions with cream or bacon if you want to try the authentic Roman Carbonara. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for classic Roman flavors.

Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a simple Roman pasta made with only Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper, yet delivers an intense flavor. There’s no butter or cream involved in the dish, just basic ingredients with the right technique. This dish is a popular choice for those who want a straightforward, flavorful meal.

Amatriciana

Originally from the town of Amatrice, Amatriciana is a pasta dish with a tomato-based sauce enriched by guanciale and Pecorino Romano cheese. It’s savory and full of umami flavor. It’s traditionally served with a bucatini pasta, which has a hollow center that holds the sauce. It’s a beautiful balance of salty, tangy, and sweet flavors.

Gricia

Gricia is one of the oldest Roman pasta recipes and a favorite among locals. It uses guanciale, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The fat from the guanciale melts into the pasta, forming a silky base that’s seasoned with sharp cheese and cracked pepper. The flavor is rich and savory. If you want a deep-cut classic that tourists often miss, Gricia is a hidden gem worth discovering.

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Street Food

Supplì

Supplì are a go-to Roman street food—fried rice balls with a meat sauce filling and melted mozzarella inside. You’ll find them in most pizza shops and takeaway spots. They’re quick, cheap, and easy to eat while walking.

Pizza al Taglio

Pizza al taglio means “pizza by the slice” and it’s an option for a quick and easy bite in Rome. This pizza features a thick yet airy crust with a crispy bottom. Toppings range from simple tomato and mozzarella to creative combos like zucchini flowers or mortadella with pistachio. Ideal for a quick lunch or snack and can be found in pizzerie throughout the city.

Trapizzino

A newer Roman street food that’s quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors. It’s a triangular pocket of pizza dough filled with classic Roman stews like chicken cacciatore or oxtail. Crispy outside, soft inside, it’s easy to eat with one hand. You’ll find it at specialty shops and food markets around Rome.

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Meat and Mains

Saltimbocca alla Romana

A classic Roman main course made with veal slices topped with prosciutto and fresh sage leaves. The meat is lightly sautéed in white wine and butter, creating a delicate sauce that enhances the salty prosciutto and aromatic sage. This dish perfectly balances simplicity and elegance, making it a must-try for meat lovers visiting Rome.

Coda alla Vaccinara

A traditional Roman oxtail stew, slow-cooked in tomato sauce with celery, carrots, and herbs. Locals usually eat it with bread to soak up the sauce. If you like hearty, slow-cooked meals, this is worth trying.

Abbacchio

Abbacchio refers to Roman-style roast lamb, usually made with young lamb and popular around Easter. The meat is marinated with garlic, rosemary, olive oil, and lemon, then roasted until golden and tender. You’ll often see it served with potatoes or greens. If you're planning to try traditional mains, this is a solid pick.

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Desserts

Tiramisù

The iconic Italian dessert known for its creamy layers of mascarpone cheese, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder. In Rome, you’ll often find local variations with a twist—sometimes using different liqueurs or a lighter mascarpone mix. Don’t miss trying tiramisù at a traditional Roman trattoria or a modern gelateria.

Gelato

No trip to Rome is complete without tasting authentic artisanal gelato. Unlike regular ice cream, gelato has a denser, silkier texture and more intense flavors. Look for gelaterie that make their gelato fresh daily, using natural fruits, nuts, and local ingredients. A cone or cup of gelato is the perfect way to cool down while strolling Rome’s historic streets.

Maritozzo

A Roman pastry: a soft bun split open and filled with whipped cream, sometimes with a bit of vanilla or citrus flavor. It started as a breakfast treat but is now a popular snack throughout the day. You’ll find these delightful buns in bakeries and cafés across Rome, often enjoyed alongside a cappuccino for the ultimate Roman sweet experience.

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Final Tips

Service Charge, Tipping, Meal Timing

Some restaurants in Rome add a coperto (cover charge) of about €1-3 per perso, though this isn’t always the case. Tipping isn’t required but around 5-10% is appreciated for good service. Meals are usually slow and social—lunch typically happens between 1–3 PM, dinner from 8–10 PM. Breakfast tends to be light or skipped.

Reservations and Busy Times at Popular Places

Popular Roman restaurants get busy fast, especially from 7:30 to 9:30 PM. It’s a good idea to book ahead, especially for well-known spots or places near tourist areas. Weekends and holidays are the busiest times, so making reservations early can save you waiting. Try visiting during off-peak hours or exploring less touristy neighborhoods where you’ll find equally delicious food without the crowds.

How to Spot Tourist Traps

Tourist traps usually have long menus in multiple languages, flashy signs, and outdoor seating with aggressive waiters. Prices tend to be higher for lower quality. To find local gems, look for places filled with Romans, often with handwritten menus and simple decor. Smaller trattorias or family-run spots away from main tourist streets usually serve authentic dishes at fair prices. Trust your instincts, ask locals for recommendations.