This post is dedicated to all foodies coming to Rome. Rome has a rich cuisine in cuisine and there are many typical dishes you will not be able to say no to. What is more, once tasted, you will want to order another round! This post will uncover the 4 best restaurants in Rome for local dishes that also have the highest guest rates on Google.
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If you haven’t read my full 3-Day Rome itinerary, you may find it here:
Rome and food
Rome is more than just a beautiful historic place. Rome is home to some of Italy’s famous dishes. I plan to dedicate a separate post just to typical Roman dishes, but until then, you can ask me all about those by sending me a message.
To briefly name some of the typical Roman dishes, here is a short list:
- Pasta alla carbonara
- Pizza al taglio
- Fiori di zucca
- Carciofi
- Tonnarelli cacio e pepe
- Bucatini all’Amatriciana
- Pasta alla Gricia
- Supplì
Before planning your food itinerary you will need a cosy spot to stay. Booking.com has you covered here as you may find the list of all available hotels and apartments in Rome in one place!
The list of best restaurants in Rome to add to your travel itinerary
These are some of the best Roman restaurants you must visit on your next trip to Rome:
Trattoria Sora Lella
Trattoria Sora Lella is known for its unique location and interesting history. The restaurant sits on the Tiber island in the heart of Rome, just behind the Roman Forum and Circo Massimo. Trattoria Sora Lella has been open since the 1940s and passed down three generations. Their specialty is traditional and authentic Roman dishes.
Sitting in the restaurant gives you a warm feel and you can even hear the river Tiber flowing in the background.
If you decide to have lunch or dinner in Trattoria Sora Lella, make sure to call for a reservation as the restaurant is always busy.
You can decide between different tasting menus (around 60-80eur per person) or order what you prefer. If you decide to go with the second option, I would recommend ordering polpettine al sugo, fiori di zucca fritti, indivia romana, cicoria (not on the menu but ask for it), and after a first dish of pasta or gnocchi.
The restaurant currently has a record 2866 reviews on Google with a medium of 4.1 stars.
Taverna Romana
Next up on our list of 4 best restaurants in Rome is Taverna Romana. Taverna Romana is a small restaurant, hidden in one of the narrow streets in the Monti neighbourhood.
Taverna Romana is all about local. Their dishes are prepared with fresh quality ingredients, sourced by local farms. You can not go wrong with tonarelli cacio e pepe or bucatini all’Amatriciana. If on the menu – try the artichokes!
The menu generally changes, depending on the season (this is a common practice), but make sure to ask for dishes outside the menu. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised!
With 2493 Google reviews (4.4 stars), Taverna Romana competes well with Trattoria Sora Lella!
Mamma Orso
You will find Mamma Orso near Piazza Bologna, on a cute and green street, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
The restaurant is unique in terms of the dishes they offer. Take it somewhat of a typical Roman restaurant, serving dishes with a twist. I highly recommend their tiramisu (right photo), which includes a special house ingredient!
We really appreciated the amazing and kind staff with exceptional knowledge of their dishes and wines.
Not to mention, Mamma Orso has a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Google!
Osteria Maré
Osteria Maré is for you if you enjoy good quality seafood. You will find this restaurant in the north-eastern part of Rome, right by the Via Nomentana.
The atmosphere in the restaurant gives a homey feel and you can choose between countless seafood starters and main dishes.
You absolutely must try the fried calamaretti as well as their pasta with pistacchio and gamberi, which is to die for! Osteria Maré also offers a wide variety of wines to accompany your dishes.
Over 1100 guests reviewed Osteria Maré on Google and gave the restaurant a deserving 4.4 out of 5 stars!
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Hi, it's Neja
I am an expat from Slovenia,
living in Milan since 2021 and writing a travel blog for all of you who are curious about life in Italy or traveling in Europe.
Follow me on my journey and learn everything about Italy and the European destinations.