The Best Restaurants in Rome: A Blend of Tradition and Culinary Innovation

I. THE BEST TRATTORIAS IN ROME

1. Da Enzo al 29

Located in the heart of Trastevere, the trattoria Da Enzo exudes the charm of simplicity: the menu is short, and the restaurant has retained its authentic character. Locals and tourists alike flock here to enjoy dishes that capture the essence of Italy and offer the comfort of home-cooked meals. At this Roman restaurant, there’s no fuss—just one standout dish: rigatoni alla carbonara. An iconic dish of the Lazio region, carbonara is elevated by the rigatoni, whose cylindrical shape allows it to fully embrace the sauce. Be prepared to wait a bit, as the restaurant doesn’t take reservations. 

Plan B: If you’re put off by the line, you can make a reservation at Da Armando al Pantheon, which offers an equally warm atmosphere just a few meters from the Pantheon.

Da Enzo Al 29
Via dei Vascellari, 29, Trastevere, 00153 Rome

2. Taverna Trilussa

A Rome restaurant with a bistronomic vibe, Taverna Trilussa has stood the test of time while maintaining its reputation for excellence. As soon as you step through the door, you’re immersed in the atmosphere of a charming tavern with its high ceilings, white tablecloths that lend the place a refined air, and attentive service. The spectacle begins immediately: the cheeses and cold cuts on display throughout the restaurant serve as decor and set the tone, while servers whirl around, putting the finishing touches on pasta dishes right before the amazed eyes of diners. On the plate, while you can’t resist their cacio e pepe, be sure to save room for a secondo, such as veal meatballs with truffles or roast suckling pig with fennel and beer.

Insider tip: the Mimosa ravioli, whose vegetarian recipe is a closely guarded secret—Novak Djokovic’s favorite dish!

Taverna Trilussa
Via del Politeama 23, 00153 Rome

II. FINE DINING & GOURMET RESTAURANTS

3. Imàgo (Hotel Hassler)

Why book here? Very few restaurants in Rome can boast the prestige of Imàgo, the Michelin-starred panoramic restaurant at the iconic Hotel Hassler—owned by hotelier Roberto Wirth—tucked away at the very top of the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna). First, there’s the setting—absolutely dazzling, with a 270° view that takes in the entire city. From there, the two bell towers of the Trinità dei Monti are just a few meters away, and the Villa Medici is within easy reach.

And then there’s the cuisine of Neapolitan chef Andrea Antonini. After traveling the length and breadth of Europe (Spain, Italy), he settled at the top of the Hotel Hassler, where he had begun his career fifteen years earlier as a commis chef. In this majestic setting, he delivers top-notch cuisine, skillfully blending his Italian roots with the exotic influences he absorbed over nearly a decade. The result is a bold “Project” menu that takes diners on a culinary journey, featuring sea cucumber, ravioli, and pork paired with clementines and mustard. This restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star and comes with our unreserved recommendation.

Where? On the sixth and top floor of the legendary Hotel Hassler, overlooking the world-famous Spanish Steps.

When? For dinner, without a doubt.

With whom? With your partner, for a chic and romantic evening where you’ll dress to the nines (jackets are required for gentlemen, just like in the finest Parisian restaurants).

The bill? Appetizers and pasta dishes range from €32 to €40; main courses from €34 to €65. Tasting menus are priced at €120, €130, and €150.

Any extra tips? Reserve the corner table, at the junction of the two bay windows, and arrive early enough (it’s up to you to determine the ideal time based on the season) to enjoy the sunset setting Rome ablaze.

Address: Piazza Trinità dei Monti, 6, Rome / Phone: 39 06 6993 4726

4. Aroma (Palazzo Manfredi)

Why book here? Perched atop the Palazzo Manfredi (a luxury boutique hotel part of the Relais & Châteaux group), the Aroma restaurant (also awarded a Michelin star) is frequented as much by tourists captivated by the view of the Colosseum—unmatched anywhere in Rome—as by Rome’s high society, loyal to this distinguished, traditional restaurant whose timeless elegance never disappoints.

But beyond the mesmerizing view, the 100% Italian cuisine crafted by Chef Giuseppe Di Iorio showcases seasonal ingredients, precise flavors, and beautifully plated dishes. While he is equally at home with reimagined Italian traditions as he is with a more international style, it is the pasta dishes alone that make a romantic dinner for two overlooking the Colosseum well worth the treat—such as these absolutely unforgettable ravioli stuffed with buffalo mozzarella, carrots, and anchovies (Ravioli farciti con mozzarella di bufala e alici del "Mar Cantabrico" su estratto di carota)—absolutely unforgettable. Giuseppe Di Iorio explains that serving cuisine that lives up to the fabulous view of the Colosseum is a “daily challenge.” He rises to it with mastery. World-class service and a cozy atmosphere.

Where? On the intimate terrace of Palazzo Manfredi, just a stone’s throw from Rome’s most famous monument, the Colosseum.

When? Preferably for dinner, but the terrace is also very pleasant at lunchtime.

With whom? For a romantic dinner with your loved one.

The bill? Appetizers and pasta dishes range from €36 to €43; main courses from €48 to €54; tasting menus are €150 (€230 with wine pairings). Note: There’s a gluten-free menu (rare for this type of restaurant) for 115€.

Any extra tips? Opt for the pasta—it’s sensational—over the main courses, which, while well-executed, are a bit more ordinary.

Address: Palazzo Manfredi, Via Labicana, 125, Rome / Phone: 39 06 7759 1380

III. CREATIVE CHEFS & CONTEMPORARY CUISINE

5. Glass Hostaria

Why book here? Located in the heart of Trastevere—Rome’s “Marais”— Glass has established itself as one of the iconic restaurants driving the revival of local gastronomy, despite the area’s reputation for being conservative. The experience features ultra-contemporary design—all glass and metal—subtle lighting effects, and highly creative cuisine from the iconoclastic chef Cristina Bowerman, who holds a law degree from Puglia and a culinary arts degree from Austin, Texas! A spot that gentrified foodies (expect to pay €85 for the chef’s choice menu) are sure to love. The restaurant has been awarded one Michelin star.

Note that the Bowerman/Spada couple also runs Romeo Chef & Baker, a hybrid space -part bakery, part restaurant- in the Prati neighborhood.

Glass Hostaria
Address: Vicolo de' Cinque, 58, Rome / Phone: 39 06 5833 5903

6. Marzapane

Why make a reservation? Another spot that’s a hit with the international foodie scene, Marzapane has quickly established itself as one of the top restaurants in the Italian capital, thanks both to the striking interior design (by the Sicilian firm Salefino) and the talent of the chef behind the stove, Alba Esteve Ruiz. A former apprentice of the Roca brothers in Girona, the young chef (only 27 years old) delights locals’ taste buds by putting a twist on traditional Roman flavors with her Iberian influences. A restaurant that Le Fooding would certainly rave about if it were on this side of the Alps!

Marzapane
Address: Via Velletri, 39, Rome / Phone: 39 06 6478 1692

IV. TRENDY RESTAURANTS & HOT SPOTS

7. Casa Coppelle

Why make a reservation? Located on the charming Piazza delle Coppelle—a small square beloved by Romans just a stone’s throw from the Pantheon— Casa Coppelle stands out—without false modesty—as one of the finest spots in the Centro Storico, an area otherwise overrun by tourist traps and restaurants that pay little attention to the quality of their food.

Behind this success is the Franco-Italian couple Omar and Rachelle Capparuccini, who had the brilliant idea of enlisting the famous French architect and interior designer Jacques Garcia—to whom we owe, among other things, the Hôtel Costes, the new Mamounia, the Maison Souquet, and, more recently, La Réserve Paris. The instantly recognizable Garcia style magically combines the intimacy of this restaurant—designed around various boudoir-style lounges—with the opulence of a rich, almost grandiose decor (Napoleon III furniture, large silk curtains, period portraits, ornate tapestries, and peacock-tail armchairs). Add to that a high-quality jazz soundtrack and masterful Franco-Italian cuisine (under the leadership of Chef Fabio Rossi, former sous chef to Heinz Beck at La Pergola, Rome’s only three-star restaurant), and you have a refined, unique, timeless destination. You’d almost expect to see Alec Baldwin, Penélope Cruz, or Ellen Page stroll in straight out of *To Rome with Love*, a romantic comedy that feels like a Roman vacation for its director, Woody Allen.

Where? Right in the heart of the Centro Storico, on the small Piazza delle Coppelle, a meeting spot much loved by Romans in the Sant’Eustachio neighborhood.

When? Once night has fallen over Rome.

With whom? With a loved one or with friends.

The bill? Appetizers and pasta from €12 to €20; main courses from €18 to €27; desserts from €12 to €14. Bottles of wine starting at €22.

Casa Coppelle
Address: Piazza delle Coppelle, 49, Rome / Phone: 39 06 6889 1707

8. Jardin de Russie (Hotel de Russie)

Why book here? Located at the foot of the Pincio and below the Villa Borghese, this garden—belonging to one of Rome’s most legendary hotels (the Hotel de Russie, formerly a retreat for the Russian imperial family during their visits to the Italian capital, now under the ownership of Sir Rocco Forte)—proves to be a wonderful spot for lunch as soon as the sun comes out.

The setting, utterly enchanting, attracts an elegant and discerning clientele, much like the terraces of luxury hotels in Paris. Thus, in this ultra-chic garden, it’s not uncommon to rub shoulders with slender models, families from Rome’s bourgeoisie, well-dressed businesspeople, and, of course, a few savvy tourists who have chosen this one-of-a-kind haven of luxury over the soulless restaurants in the surrounding area. The Italian cuisine is quite good—though not mind-blowing—crafted by maestro Fulvio Pierangelini, one of Italy’s most renowned chefs.

Where? Inside the highly exclusive Hotel de Russie, just a stone’s throw from Piazza del Popolo.

When? For lunch, of course.

With whom? As a couple, with friends, or with family—it doesn’t matter; the pleasure of lunch at the Jardin de Russie is open to everyone.

The bill? Appetizers and pasta dishes range from €18 to €30, main courses from €34 to €44, and desserts from €16 to €20.

Any extra tips? Stick to a pasta dish or a focaccina. It’s in its simplicity that the cuisine at the Jardin de Russie shines brightest.

Address: Hotel de Russie, Via del Babuino, 9, Rome / Phone: 39 06 3288 8870

9. The Deer Club

Why book here? Nestled within the ultra-chic D.O.M.—an exclusive, intimate boutique hotel housed in a former 17th-century religious building— The Deer Club breaks with Roman tradition by offering a glamorous setting, halfway between a sexy boudoir and an English club. It’s no surprise, then, to find a cosmopolitan clientele, ranging from trendy locals to international travelers on the lookout for the latest hotspots. While The Deer Club, with its hunting trophies and plush sofas, The Deer Club is more of a bar—perfect for a chic cocktail or a glass of champagne—than a restaurant, the food served there is still good enough in its own right (the menu features a few classic Roman dishes) to enjoy a light meal in a relaxed atmosphere.

The “club” atmosphere is perfectly suited to the winter season, but rest assured: in the summer, the Deer Club moves to the hotel’s super-cool rooftop. And it remains one of the most popular nightlife destinations in all of Rome!

Where? On the chic Via Giulia, lined with palaces, art galleries, and antique shops—all just a stone’s throw from the banks of the Tiber and Campo de’ Fiori.

When? In the evening (the Deer Club doesn’t open before 7 p.m. anyway).

With whom? In good company.

The bill? Appetizers, pasta, and sushi range from €12 to €20. Desserts are around €10.

Any extra tips? If you’d like to have dinner, don’t arrive too late to ensure you get a seat.

Address: Via Giulia, 131, Rome / Phone: 39 06 6832144

V. ROMAN TRADITION & AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

10. Armando al Pantheon

Why make a reservation? Since 1961, when Armando Gargioli opened this traditional restaurant, this family-run trattoria has certainly delighted Rome’s residents and tourists alike! In the past, Jean-Paul Sartre used to come here to write; today, it’s architect Renzo Piano who has lunch here with his teams and jots down his next designs on a corner of the table before giving them as a gift to Claudio Gargioli, Armando’s successor in the kitchen of this Roman institution. On the menu: old-fashioned decor and a timeless menu showcasing world-famous Roman classics (Spaghetti alla Carbonara, alla Griscia, alla Matriciana, Cacio e Pepe…). Also on the menu are dishes inspired by the cuisine of Ancient Rome (duck with plums) and a few dishes symbolic of the “quinto quarto”—a term dear to Rome, literally meaning the “fifth quarter,” a metaphor referring to the less-prized cuts of meat. Don’t miss the Fettuccine con le Rigaglie di Pollo—this fettuccine with chicken giblets, described by Giovanni Passerini as one of the best pasta recipes in the world!

Where? Next to the Pantheon.

When? Any time, though we have a slight preference for the second seating of the evening. It’s a chance to see—and chat with—the regulars at this legendary Roman restaurant.

With whom? Anyone !

The bill? Appetizers, soups, and pasta from €6 to €13; main courses from €15 to €25.

Any extra tips? Don’t order too much—the portions are generous.

Armando al Pantheon
Address: Salita dei Crescenzi, 31, Rome / Phone: 39 06 6880 3034