Our Rome Dining Diary

When visiting Rome, the allure of its culinary offerings can be irresistible. However, amidst the sea of restaurants catering to tourists, it's easy to fall into the trap of dining establishments that prioritize convenience over authenticity. Fear not! With a bit of insider knowledge and strategic planning, you can steer clear of tourist traps and immerse yourself in Rome's vibrant food culture like a local.

Here's a taste of some of the places we tried on our recent adventure:

FOR THE PASTA:

Trattoria Monti is a beloved culinary gem and family-run trattoria tucked away in the heart of Rome, just a stone's throw from the iconic Colosseum, in the Esquilino neighborhood. This charming trattoria has earned a reputation for its authentic Roman cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike

We visited at lunch after our tour at the Colosseum and you could tell this was truly a “locals” restaurant. Try the tortello al rosso, it does not disappoint and the house wine was amazing at $20! This restaurant is very small so make sure to make a reservation!

Ristorante Pancrazio was recommended by our golf cart tour guide, and it did not disappoint. It is located in the heart of Rome, just a stone's throw from the majestic Pantheon. It is tucked away on a charming cobblestone street, and this family-owned restaurant offers a truly authentic Roman dining experience.

The menu features an array of mouthwatering options, from traditional pasta dishes like carbonara and amatriciana to fresh seafood specialties and succulent meat entrees. We tried several pasta dishes, and while all were amazing, the carbonara stood out as the best meal of our trip!

FOR THE VIEW:

Cielo Bar is the place to be in Rome for an extraordinary rooftop experience. From the moment you step onto the terrace, you’re greeted by stunning panoramic views that stretch across the entire Eternal City.

We met some friends here and enjoyed cocktails and small bites, all while taking in the breathtaking views! The Aperol Spritz and classic Negroni are highly recommended and were both perfectly crafted by Cielo Bar's skilled mixologists!

Cielo Bar an ideal spot for a relaxed yet elegant aperitivo. Arrive early to snag a prime spot and watch the sun set over the city's historic skyline, setting the perfect tone for a memorable evening.

Hotel Indigo® Rome - St. George Rooftop Terrace is the only other rooftop location that we visited. I'm not sure that I would make an extra trip, but if you are staying at the Hotel Indigo, or nearby, it is definitly worth a stop in. It is a delightful gem offering stunning panoramic views of the city's historical skyline, including the iconic St. Peter's Basilica.

Guests can enjoy a variety of refreshments and light bites from the terrace bar, which serves a curated selection of cocktails, wines, and local delicacies.

FOR THE GELATO:

Fatamorgana Gelato offers a delightful array of artisanal gelato flavors made from high-quality, natural ingredients. What sets Fatamorgana apart is its commitment to using natural, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients to create their gelato masterpieces. From classic flavors like pistachio and stracciatella to more adventurous combinations such as lavender and white peach or ricotta and fig, each scoop is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

There are several location throughout Rome, so you can try a new flavor everyday. Our favorite ended up being pistachio and cream, but make sure you say it right-- “pee-stahk-kyoh!”

Marave Gelateria is a must-visit for anyone in the Campi de'Fiore area and in search of exceptional gelato. Located in a charming area, this gelateria stands out for its authentic Italian flavors and artisanal quality. The ambiance is cozy and inviting. The dark chocolate gelato was a stand-out flavor, and they also offer fun chocolate treats too if you are sick of gelato (could that ever happen?!)

OTHER MENTIONS:

Forno Camp De Fiori-- We found ourselves here a lot as it was the middle spot between where we were staying and where we were going. Pizza, baked goods, desserts, and everything in between. You can't go wrong for a quick meal on the go!

Panificio- Another great place for bakery items and pizza fora quick bite.

Forno Roscioli- Every time we walked by this restaurant, they had a line out the door, so I wouldn't be surprised if everything was delicious. We stopped in for a quick cappuccino and an authentic creme puff! I will point out that my husband ordered them iced (gasp!) and they were happy to serve it!