Eat like a Local in Rome


From your morning coffee all the way to gelato for dessert, you’ll have to try these amazing places just like the Romans. Check out this list so you can learn where the hot spots are to eat like a local in Rome!

Morning Coffee: Caffè Sant’Eustachio 

This place is perfect for any type of coffee lover. Whether you want a café normale (espresso) or a refreshing granita, this is the best place to go. Located around the corner from the Pantheon, this café has been in business for more than 70 years. It’s run by brothers Raimondo and Roberto Ricci, who hand pick the organic coffee beans.

Lunch: La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali

Regulars here will tell you to always ask about the day’s specials for delicacies like homemade pasta with white-truffle ragu. If you’re not into the daily specials, they also serve reasonably priced, classic dishes such as gnocchi. This neighborhood favorite is conveniently located near the Forum and Colosseum, so head here for lunch after you’re done sightseeing!

Pasta: Roma Sparita

This restaurant overlooks one of Trastevere’s pretty piazzas, and is always packed with Romans. Most tourists have not discovered it yet, making its name very appropriate. Its name “Roma Sparita” used to be a nickname for all of Trastevere meaning “disappeared” or “undiscovered” Rome. Roma Sparita serves delicious fritti, meat & fish, and pizza. However, it’s most famous for its traditional Roman dish of cacio e pepe, which is pasta with pecorino romano sheep cheese and black pepper.

Pizza: Formula Uno

Of course, you can get delicious pizza at basically any pizzeria in Rome. However, you must go to San Lorenzo’s Formula Uno to eat top-notch pizza without other tourists crowding the restaurant. At Formula Uno, the crust is thin and crispy and the prices are excellent!

Cucina Roma: Il Pommidoro

Located in San Lorenzo, Il Pommidoro has been run by the same family since it opened in 1926! They serve real Roman food, such as pasta carbonara for just €8. You won’t find such hearty local dishes anywhere else. Il Pommidoro is the place to go if you’re looking to try authentic cucina Roma.

Gelato: Ciampini

Located halfway between Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps, Ciampini has tons of gelato flavors, from the classic ones to the exotic ones. Try rich dark chocolate, chestnut, and even peach-and-pinenut!