Pierluigi
Despite the city’s close proximity to the sea, Roman restaurants rarely focus on fresh fish with any great success. A notable exception is Pierluigi, where even the decor looks to the water, subtly recalling Deco-era yacht cabins. Lovely as these interiors are, however, book a table outside in the long piazza off chic Via Monserrato. Regulars know to share, starting with dishes like fried squid, raw and cured fish, and the shrimp-and-potato insalata Catalana, followed by salt-crusted whole fish.
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.
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.
Felice A Testaccio
For a top example of the classic pasta sauces that make Rome so famous, head to Da Felice in the city’s former meat packing neighborhood.
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.
