Felice A Testaccio
For a top example of the classic pasta sauces that make Rome so famous—like the creamy cacio e pepe option with sheep’s cheese and cracked black pepper that should figure on the top of any gourmand’s list—head to Da Felice in the city’s former meat packing neighborhood. Rather than chose one of the more mundane main courses, carbo load like crazy on fresh pastas, and save room for the decadent tiramisu, served up in a wine glass.
More Restaurants in Rome
Antica Pesa
For proof there's something special about this Roman classic in Trastevere, look to the massive collection of celebrity photos that covers the walls.
Pierluigi
Roman restaurants rarely focus on fresh fish with any great success. Pierluigi is a notable exception.
Roscioli
A top specialty food-and-wine shop by day, this grotto-like space becomes one of the best spots for traditional Roman cuisine at night.
Emma
Emma specializes in Rome’s signature super-crispy, super-thin crust pizza, as well as such classic local dishes.
Mazzo
Mazzo is known for serving up satisfying, deeply authentic Roman fare that also manages to be creative.
La Pergola
Even if you haven’t come to Rome for ultra-fancy, haute gastronomie, you shouldn’t miss the city’s only Michelin three-star restaurant.
Retrobottega
Whenever a spot becomes the post-work gathering place for chefs and hospitality types, you know it deserves a visit.
Bonci Pizzarium
Tucked away off the northwest corner of the Vatican, this order-at-the-counter, pizza-by-the-slice joint has become a pie pilgrimage site.
Antico Arco
This more than 20-year-old institution manages to be both consistent and delicious, serving up creative and classic Roman cuisine.