The Epicurean’s Travel Guide to Food in Rome
When you think of Rome, you’re likely imagining its awe-inspiring architecture, layers of history, and yes—the incredible food. Rome is a culinary paradise, where every street, market, and restaurant is bursting with tantalizing aromas, tastes, and experiences. So, grab a fork and come with me on this culinary journey through Rome.
The Roman Culinary Scene: An Overview
The food scene in Rome is deeply rooted in the city’s history and culture. Roman cuisine is based on seasonal ingredients, simplicity, and a medley of flavors that make each dish stand out. At its core, it’s cucina povera or “poor kitchen,” signifying its origin from the city’s working class. Here, less is more. Every ingredient matters and is meant to shine through.
Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Pasta in Rome
Rome is a pasta lover’s dream. But when in Rome, don’t just stick with spaghetti! Try the local pastas: Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, Amatriciana, and Gricia.
Carbonara is a creamy mix of pecorino cheese, eggs, guanciale (Italian cured pork cheek), and a generous sprinkling of black pepper. Cacio e Pepe—cheese and pepper—is as simple and delightful as it sounds, with its tangy Pecorino Romano cheese and a good dash of black pepper. Amatriciana is a tomato-based sauce with guanciale and pecorino cheese. Lastly, Gricia, the lesser-known of the four, is a tempting white pasta with guanciale and pecorino, often considered a precursor to Amatriciana before tomatoes arrived from the New World.
Secondi: Meat and Fish
Roman cuisine offers hearty meat dishes. Try Abbacchio alla Scottadito (grilled lamb chops) or Saltimbocca alla Romana, veal wrapped in prosciutto and sage, cooked in white wine. Rome isn’t a coastal city, but you can still find excellent seafood dishes such as Baccalà alla Romana, fried cod, a true delight.
Street Food and Snacks
Street food in Rome is an experience in itself. Supplì, a fried rice-ball filled with mozzarella and often ragù or tomato sauce, is a popular snack. Pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) is another Roman fast food, served up in countless varieties.
Top Food Markets in Rome
No culinary journey is complete without a trip to the bustling food markets. They’re the lifeline of Roman cuisine and the best way to immerse yourself in local life.
Campo de’ Fiori
This open-air market is one of Rome’s oldest, where locals and tourists alike gather to shop for fresh produce. From fruits and vegetables to cheeses, meats, and bread, Campo de’ Fiori is a must-visit.
Mercato Trionfale
One of the largest markets in Rome, Mercato Trionfale, is the perfect place to get lost among aisles of local cheeses, cured meats, olive oils, and a multitude of other Italian specialities. Make sure to try some fresh buffalo mozzarella!
Top Gelato Spots
No visit to Rome is complete without enjoying a cup or cone of velvety, rich gelato. But with a gelateria on every corner, where should you go?
Giolitti
This is the oldest gelateria in Rome and a true icon. The flavor options are immense and exciting, but you can never go wrong with classics like stracciatella or pistachio.
Fatamorgana
For those with adventurous palates, Fatamorgana offers intriguing gelato flavors like basil-walnut or gorgonzola-apple. All their gelatos are gluten-free, so everyone can indulge.
Culinary Tours and Cooking Classes
For a deeper dive into Roman cuisine, consider joining a culinary tour or a cooking class. This gives you a chance to learn about the food history, engage with local chefs, and even try your hand at making some classic dishes. Companies like “Eating Italy Food Tours” or “Cooking Classes in Rome” come highly recommended.
The Art of Dining in Rome
Romans traditionally eat late, with lunch starting around 1 pm and dinner often after 8 pm. It’s customary to start with aperitivo—a pre-meal drink to stimulate the appetite—around 7 pm. Remember, Rome is not a city to rush; meals are a time to relax and savour your food. Eating in Rome is as much about the experience as it is about the food.
Dietary Requirements and Preferences in Rome
If you have specific dietary requirements, worry not! The eternal city has seen a significant rise in restaurants catering to various diets, ensuring everyone gets a taste of Rome. Let’s explore some options.
Vegan and Vegetarian
Though traditional Roman cuisine is meat and cheese-heavy, many restaurants are now offering vegan and vegetarian versions of classic dishes. Places like Il Margutta and Ops! are making waves in the plant-based scene. Also, don’t forget to try a maritozzo, a sweet bread bun typically filled with whipped cream, but you can find delightful vegan versions too.
Gluten-Free
Being gluten-free in the land of pasta might sound challenging. But Italy is one of the best countries for gluten-free options, owing to the high prevalence of celiac disease among Italians. Look out for places with “Senza Glutine” signs or visit spots like Mama Eat and La Soffitta Renovatio that specialize in gluten-free Italian dishes.
Delving into Roman Wine Culture
Pairing your meal with the right wine is as important as the food itself in Rome. From crisp whites to robust reds, Roman wines are as diverse as they are delicious. For a refreshing white, go for a glass of Frascati. If reds are more your style, Cesanese is a local favorite. When in Rome, remember the term “vino della casa” – house wine. It’s often excellent and comes at a great price. And for wine lovers, consider taking a wine tasting tour in the Roman countryside.
Coffee Culture in Rome
Coffee in Rome is an art form. The day starts with a quick espresso at the bar, often paired with a cornetto (Italian croissant). Romans prefer their coffee short and strong. If you ask for a latte, you’ll get just that—a glass of milk! So remember, a “caffè latte” is the right term. Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè and Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria are two must-visit spots for coffee lovers.
Wrapping Up: Food Etiquette and Tips
When dining in Rome, service might seem a bit unhurried compared to what you’re used to—remember, meals here are a leisurely affair. When it comes to tipping, service charge is usually included in the bill, but it’s common to leave a small amount (around €1-2 per person) for good service.
Lastly, try to resist the temptation of tourist trap restaurants around major sights. Head off the beaten path, and you’re more likely to stumble upon authentic food experiences. Don’t be shy to use your hands while eating pizza—it’s the Roman way. And remember, no cappuccinos after 11 am—it’s seen as a heavy drink to be enjoyed in the morning, not after a meal.
Rome is not just a city—it’s an experience, and its cuisine is an integral part of the Roman life that pulses in every piazza, street, and trattoria. Take your time, venture beyond the typical, engage with the locals, and let Rome’s food take center stage in your memories. And as you sip on that final espresso, looking out onto the cobblestoned streets, you’ll realize that Rome, with all its flavors and flair, has served you more than a meal—it’s served you a slice of the Italian dolce vita.