Food in Italy is more than just food, it’s a part of the cultural fabric that makes everyday Italians who they are. There are so many restaurants in Rome that tourists could spend weeks on end researching where the best slice of Roman pizza is or where the freshest and quality pasta is served. When you find yourself in Rome, try one of these local favorites and get a sense of the importance that food holds in the Italian culture.

Also, just a heads up but Italians don’t typically eat dinner till around 8:30 or 9 and dinner with friends will surely be a multiple hour event. So if you don’t want to scream tourist, head to one of these restaurants towards the tail end of the night.

Fine Dining

Mo Mo Republic is a converted palace that now seats around 600 guests. The villa and its decor is reminiscent of the 1930s and both the atmosphere and food is impeccable. Best known for their meat and fish dishes, Mo Mo Republic also serves up quality pizzas and pastas as well as vegetarian options (a rarity in Italy). During the summer dine on the wooden terrace outside or enjoy yourself and company in the garden with an after dinner espresso (and watch as little dwarf rabbits hop about the grounds).

Average price

Il Cortile is hands down one of the best trattoria’s in Monteverde, located on the Janiculum Hill and overlooking St. Peter’s Basilica . The dishes are not all that fancy but where they lack in elegance they make up for in quality, simplicity, and fresh ingredients. Most go for the antipasto buffet with its selections of veggie plates, Roman style artichokes, breaded fennel, and a variety of cheeses. Although it may be a bit difficult to reach this restaurant it’s worth the taxi ride. After dining, walk over to the belvedere located on top of the Juniculum and feast your eyes on one of the best panoramas of the city.

Roman pizza

Yes pizza is the glory of Naples. However, Rome has it’s own take on the dish and there are plenty of pizzerias in the city. Expect the crust to be a bit thinner and crispier than traditional pizza in Naples. Still, it’s excellent. If you’re out and about by the Colosseum and get a twinge of hunger, pop into Pizzeria Li Rioni or Pizzeria Panattoni. If you’re shopping for produce in the Campo de Fiore, head into Forno di Campo de’ Fiori and have you’re pick between pizza bianca, or any number of other varieties.