Top 10 Best Places to Eat in Rome

Rome's only 3-Michelin-star restaurant, perched atop the Rome Cavalieri hotel with breathtaking panoramic views of the Eternal City. Under the masterful direction of German chef Heinz Beck since 1994, La Pergola serves exquisite Mediterranean cuisine that blends Italian tradition with innovative techniques. The legendary wine cellar houses over 60,000 bottles, and the famous water menu offers selections from around the world.

A two-Michelin-starred gem hidden in a quiet corner near Campo de' Fiori, Il Pagliaccio showcases chef Anthony Genovese's extraordinary fusion of Italian, Asian, and French influences. The intimate dining room seats just 28 guests, creating an exclusive atmosphere for experiencing one of Rome's most creative tasting menus. Each dish is a work of art that challenges and delights.

Part high-end deli, part restaurant, Roscioli is a Centro Storico legend where you dine surrounded by shelves of premium wines, aged cheeses, and cured meats. Their Carbonara is often cited as the best in Rome, made with premium guanciale sourced directly from their counter. The knowledgeable staff guides diners through an exceptional selection of Italian products.

A rare authentic gem located just steps from the Pantheon, where tourist traps usually abound. Since 1961, the Gargioli family has served classic Roman dishes in a cozy, wood-paneled setting. Their Cacio e Pepe and Jewish-style artichokes are legendary. Reservations are essential weeks in advance—this is where Romans bring visitors they want to impress.

A tiny, bustling institution in Trastevere that feels like a true neighborhood spot despite the inevitable lines. Famous for its intensely creamy Carbonara made with premium guanciale and the textbook Carciofi alla Giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes), it offers an authentic, rowdy Roman dining experience. No reservations for dinner—arrive early or wait.

Gabriele Bonci's legendary pizza al taglio shop near the Vatican revolutionized Roman street food. Known as the 'Michelangelo of Pizza,' Bonci creates light, airy crusts topped with creative, seasonal ingredients that change throughout the day. There are no seats—grab your slice by weight and eat standing on the sidewalk like a true Roman.

Perched atop the Gianicolo hill with romantic views over Rome, Antico Arco offers sophisticated contemporary Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. The extensive wine cellar is housed in ancient catacombs beneath the restaurant. Chef Patrizia Mattei creates refined dishes that honor Roman tradition while embracing modern techniques.

A Testaccio neighborhood institution since 1936, Felice is the pilgrimage site for Cacio e Pepe purists. Waiters dramatically toss the pasta tableside, coating each strand with the perfect emulsion of pecorino and black pepper. The atmosphere is classic old-school Rome—white tablecloths, brusque service, and uncompromising tradition.

A beloved family-run trattoria near the Trevi Fountain that has been serving classic Roman dishes since 1950. The Ciacci family maintains an unwavering commitment to tradition—handmade pasta, fresh ingredients from local markets, and recipes passed down through generations. Their Amatriciana is widely considered among the city's finest.

The quintessential Roman street food experience, Suppli Roma has been frying perfect suppli (rice croquettes with molten mozzarella centers) since 1979. Located in Trastevere, this humble counter-service spot also serves excellent pizza al taglio and other Roman fried specialties. The suppli al telefono—named for the stretchy cheese that resembles telephone cords—is legendary.