Rome is one of my favourite cities in the entire world. In a city where history, art, and beauty are everywhere you look, it’s great to explore, take it all in, and eat to your heart’s content. During my trips to the eternal city, here is where I ate in Rome.
Pizzeria De Baffeto –
Thin, crispy Roman-style pizza
Via del Governo Vecchio, near Piazza Navona
If you’re looking for classic Roman pizza done right, then Pizzeria De Baffeto is a must. We actually visited this place completely by accident as I was trying to remember the name and location of PizzaRe (both near a piazza with an obelisk), which I had stumbled upon in a previous visit and wanted to go back to. We loved the no frills, charming atmosphere of this restaurant and especially loved being sat next to the small kitchen so we could watch the masters, covered in flour, at work.
It’s popular with both locals and tourists, so expect a short wait – but trust me, it’s worth it.
Two Sizes –
Tiramisu & Cannoli
Via del Governo Vecchio, near Piazza Navona
Conveniently on the same street as Pizzeria De Bafeto, Two Sizes is a tiny dessert haven specialising in tiramisu. As the name suggests, you choose between two sizes (go for the larger, you won’t regret it.)
This was on my list to visit, prior to my trip to Rome and it did not disappoint. The tiramisu was the perfect blend of rich and creamy, with a massively diverse range of flavours including classic coffee and pistachio. Two Sizes’ tiramisu is also responsible for converting my husband into a tiramisu fan!
All’ Antico Vinaio –
Famous Italian sandwiches
Piazza della Maddalena, near the Pantheon
Originally from Florence, All’ Antico Vinaio has made a big name for itself in Rome – and for good reason. Their sandwiches are made with fluffy, warm focaccia and generously compiled with your selection of high-quality cured meats and cheeses (always pleases).
I had the La Dante – capocollo with stracchino, truffle cream and rocket (arugula) – and it was incredible. Sitting by the Pantheon, taking in the ancient sites of the city whilst enjoying this delicious sandwich with a crisp cola is a joyous thing. I believe All’ Antico Vinaio has expanded their locations to outwith Italy, including a location in London, which I look forward to visiting!
The View Trevi –
Bar with a view
Hotel Fontana, directly overlooking the Trevi Fountain
An absolute highlight of our trip, sipping a cocktail while looking directly out at the Trevi Fountain felt almost unreal. The View Trevi offers an intimate, front-row seat to one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.
So that we could try to secure a window table, we arrived shortly before 4 PM for the bar opening. (Mission successful). From memory, I believe we were 25€ pp for access, including a cocktail and bar snack. It may seem a little expensive, but in reality, you are paying for the view. It’s an unforgettable spot for a drink, especially in the golden hour.
The Court –
Cocktails with a Colosseum view
Via Labicana, near the Colosseum
The Court is another bar with an absolutely iconic view. This stylish bar sits near the Colosseum, and if you can snag a seat facing it, you’re in for something special. Watching the Colosseum glow at night while enjoying a perfectly crafted cocktail is a ‘When in Rome’ moment I won’t forget in a hurry.
Booking is essential, but we were extraordinarily lucky again to get prime seats looking out to the Colosseum. I don’t know if it’s possible to request seats, but it may be worth asking if you’re visiting for a special occasion.
Alfredo all Scrofa –
Classic Italian cuisine & birthplace of Alfredo pasta
Via della Scrofa
This historic restaurant is famous for inventing Alfredo pasta, something I had never tried before – I don’t know how – but there was no better place to try it! The waiter serving this tableside was a highlight. Jack received a standard plate, whereas I was served the comically large plate that the dish was mixed in.
The Alfredo is definitely the star, but the menu did seem to offer alternative Italian dishes. Reservations are a must.
Wisdomless Club –
Cool cocktails near Piazza Navona
Tucked away near Da Baffetto and Two Sizes, Wisdomless Club was such a cool bar and a great stop for a cocktail. It seemed less touristy than you might expect for the location and had such a cool atmosphere. If I had to describe the aesthetic, it would be a cabinet of curiosities with an Edgar Allen Poe twist.
Osteria Da Fortunata –
Fresh handmade pasta
Via del Pellegrino (multiple locations)
We visited Osteria Da Fortuna after a day where we covered over 20km walking, visiting the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the Vatican. The rustic but hearty pasta dishes were just what my weary soul needed. Watching pasta being made by hand in the window, whilst dining al fresco, is part of the experience at Osteria Da Fortunata. The pasta is fresh, simple, and absolutely delicious – comfort food at its best.
Mr. 100 Tiramisu–
Tiramisu in endless flavours
Via die Sediari, near the Pantheon and Piazza Navona
As the name suggests, Mr. 100 Tiramisu takes its tiramisu very seriously. I couldn’t quite believe the incredible range of flavours, however, I went with the classic coffee. Can’t knock a classic!
We were based in the Largo di Torre Argentina area, so we loved how close this was to us.
PizzaRe –
Neapolitan-style Pizza
Via di Ripetta, near Piazza del Popolo
When I first visited PizzaRe, it was a hidden gem stumbled upon during a university trip. I was tired of the underwhelming tourist traps the larger group kept choosing, so my friend and I split off for the day and ended up discovering some real gems, including this place.
We found PizzaRe on a drizzly evening and were seated beside a pair of Italian nonnas. They spoke broken English, we spoke broken Italian, and we bonded over pizza. It was such a wholesome moment.
When trying to find it again on a more recent visit, all I could remember was that it was down a side street near a piazza with an obelisk in the centre. This is how I ended up confusing it with Pizzeria De Baffeto. After a bit more research, I finally tracked it down, and it was just as good as I remembered. It was also here that I first tried a marinara pizza, which is now my absolute favourite (and always earns me a side-eye at home).
Every place we ate added something special to our trip and reminded me why Italian food is so loved worldwide. If you’re heading to Rome, arrive hungry and curious, make reservations only when needed, and leave plenty of room to explore and be surprised.
Quick Guide – Where to Eat in Rome
- Best pizza: Pizzeria Da Baffetto, PizzaRe
- Best pasta: Osteria Da Fortunata, Alfredo alla Scrofa
- Best tiramisu: Two Sizes, Mr. 100 Tiramisu
- Best bars with a view: The View Trevi, The Court
Until next time,
Ashleigh
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