Eating Our Way Through Rome: Restaurants & Gelato You Can’t Miss
Last autumn, I went on a girls’ trip to Rome with Filippa, my mum and my sister-in-law. We stayed in a cosy apartment near Via del Pellegrino, and between sightseeing and strolling through the piazzas, we ate our way through the city. Rome is a dream when it comes to food – every corner hides a trattoria, an osteria or a gelateria worth trying. Here are some of our favourites, grouped by area, plus the best gelato stops you don’t want to miss.
Campo de’ Fiori & Via del Pellegrino
Osteria dei Cappellari
A real find tucked away in a quiet side street. Their Cacio e Pepe (€12) was perfectly creamy with just the right amount of pepper. The place is small and lively, packed with locals – always a good sign.
The Hyped Pasta Spot (Via del Pellegrino)
You’ll spot this one easily – just look for the line of people outside. Their Carbonara (€13) has quite the reputation, and it lived up to the hype: rich, silky, and authentic.
Da Pancrazio
Just a short walk from Campo de’ Fiori, this historic trattoria is built over the ruins of Pompey’s Theatre. Their Amatriciana (€14) is a must-try. A meal here feels like dining with history.
Near the Trevi Fountain
Osteria Bacco
Close to the fountain but not overly touristy. We loved their Saltimbocca alla Romana (€16) – tender veal with sage and prosciutto, cooked to perfection.
Antica Fontana di Trevi
A friendly spot for a relaxed lunch. Their Pizza Capricciosa (€11) with artichokes, ham, and mushrooms was generous and delicious. Great place for families too.
Close to St. Peter’s Basilica
Fattoincasa
A cosy stop after visiting the Vatican. Their wood-fired Margherita pizza (€9) was simple but wonderful – sometimes less really is more.
Trattoria Angelo alla Cupola
Just around the corner from St. Peter’s. Their Lasagne (€13) was hearty and homemade, with layers of rich ragù and béchamel. Friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere.
Piazza Navona Area
Ristorante Santa Cristina al Quirinale
Not far from the square, offering elegant Roman dishes. The Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (€15) was soft, cheesy and baked in the oven – pure comfort food.
Cul de Sac
A wine bar and restaurant near Piazza Navona. Their duck ragù pasta (€14) paired with a glass of local red wine was one of the highlights of our trip. Bustling but atmospheric.
Extra Tip: Via del Pellegrino Vibes
Even if you don’t stay here, stroll down Via del Pellegrino. It’s full of small artisan shops, jewellery, ceramics, and some of the best tucked-away eateries in Rome.
We truly recommend the appartment we stayed in – see more and book here.
Gelato Shops Worth the Hype
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Pellegrino Gelateria Monteforte – A tiny spot near the Pantheon. Their pistachio gelato is rich and nutty (€3 for a small cup).
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Giolitti – One of the most famous gelaterias in Rome. The hazelnut and chocolate combo (€4) is simply divine, and yes – the queue is long but worth it.
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Frigidarium – Near Piazza Navona, known for dipping scoops in chocolate shell. Try their Frigidarium flavour (€3.50), a creamy mix of biscuit and caramel.
Rome is a city for eating, laughing and living la dolce vita. And who knows – if you’re lucky, you might even get more than just a great meal… let’s just say, at one of these restaurants, we even got a waiter’s phone number. I’ll never tell which one;)
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