Rome’s Culinary Delights

Rome’s love affair with pasta is legendary. The city boasts its unique pasta dishes that are a must-try for any foodie:

Cacio e Pepe: A seemingly simple dish of pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper, but when mixed, it creates an unforgettable creamy sauce. Best enjoyed at Trattoria da Felice in Testaccio, where chefs have perfected the balance of cheese and pepper.

Carbonara: Move over, cream-filled imitations! The authentic Roman carbonara contains eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and pepper. For a plate that epitomizes perfection, head to Trattoria Romana in Quadraro.

While Naples might claim to be the birthplace of pizza, Rome has its unique take. Roman pizzas are thin and crispy, baked in rectangular trays. Visit Pizzarium by Gabriele Bonci near the Vatican, where you can enjoy a range of toppings, from the classic Margherita to more innovative combinations.

Saltimbocca alla Romana: Veal slices wrapped in prosciutto and sage, cooked in white wine and butter. Its name literally translates to “jump in the mouth,” reflecting its delightful taste.

Supplì: Deep-fried rice balls filled with mozzarella, tomato sauce, and often some meat. They’re a popular snack found in pizzerias but for the best, try I Supplì in Trastevere.

Historically, Rome’s working-class couldn’t afford prime cuts of meat, so they made do with offals. Today, dishes like trippa alla Romana (tripe with tomato sauce and mint) or coratella (lamb offal with artichokes) are considered delicacies. For the brave-hearted, Osteria dell’Angelo is your go-to spot.

Filetti di Baccalà: Nestled in Largo dei Librari, this tiny spot serves the best cod fillets. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are a treat you shouldn’t miss.

Da Teo in Trastevere: Ask for the day’s specials. You might just be treated to seasonal delights like fresh porcini mushrooms sautéed to perfection.

The Jewish Ghetto’s Carciofi alla Giudia: Deep-fried artichokes. Crispy leaves outside and soft heart inside make it an irresistible Roman-Jewish delicacy.

Tiramisu from Pompi: Established in 1960, Pompi is the King of Tiramisu. With its rich layers of mascarpone, coffee-soaked biscuits, and cocoa, it’s the perfect end to your Roman culinary journey.

Maritozzi: A sweet bun filled with whipped cream, it’s a Roman breakfast staple. Get them fresh from Roscioli, a historic bakery in the heart of Rome.

While in Rome, enjoy your meal with local wines like Frascati or Marino. For something more casual, grab a Peroni beer or sip on an Aperol Spritz.