Typical Food of Rome: A Delicious Guide for Travelers
Last Updated: Jun 26, 2023
Reading Time: 11 minutes
By: Shaun
Rome is a city that needs no introduction as it is widely regarded as one of the most visited and beloved cities in the world. Its history, art and architecture have been the subject of countless films, books and travel shows.
However, when it comes to food, Rome has a lot to offer that is often overlooked. Roman cuisine is a unique blend of traditional recipes, using locally sourced ingredients and spices that have been passed down for generations.
In this article, we will delve into the typical food in Rome from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants and everything in between. So get ready to explore the culinary delights of the Eternal City.
What Makes the Typical Food in Rome So Special?
The food in Rome like the rest of Italy is characterized by its simplicity. You do not need much to make a great dish when you start with great produce.
The city’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the agricultural traditions of the Lazio region which Rome is part of. The use of meats, cheeses and vegetables is prevalent in most dishes, along with a range of aromatic herbs and spices such as garlic, rosemary and thyme.
The cuisine in Rome has been influenced by various cultures that have occupied the city over the centuries like the Etruscans, Greeks and Arabs. The result is a cuisine that is both varied and flavorful.
Street Food in Rome: A Feast for the Senses
Rome’s street food scene is vibrant and offers a range of delicious treats that are perfect for a quick snack or a full meal. Here are some of the typical street foods to try in Rome:
1. Pizza al Taglio
Pizza al Taglio | Image by bryan... on Flickr
Pizza is a staple of Italian cuisine and in Rome, you can find some of the best pizza in the country. Pizza al taglio, which translates to “pizza by the cut” is a popular street food that is served in rectangular slices.
The pizza is baked in large trays and customers can choose which slice they want. Some popular toppings include mozzarella, tomato, prosciutto and artichoke.
2. Suppli al telefono
Suppli al telefono | Image by Krista on Flickr
Suppli are a popular Roman street food that originated in the early 19th century. It is said to have been inspired by the Sicilian arancini, which is a deep-fried rice ball stuffed with meat, peas and tomato sauce.
The term “suppli” means “surprise” in Italian and this dish definitely lives up to its name. The surprise comes from the oozing mozzarella cheese that is hidden inside the crispy rice ball. The term “al telefono” (meaning “on the telephone”) was added to the name because the melted mozzarella cheese looks like a telephone cord when the suppli is pulled apart.
The Suppli come in various varieties like
- Suppli con ragù which includes tomatoes and ground beef.
- Suppli al Telefono bianco made from white sauce instead of tomato sauce and usually containing no meat
- Suppli al nero di seppia where squid ink is added to the rice to give it a distinct black colour.
3. Trapizzino
Trapizzino | Image by Diego Zitelli on Wikimedia Commons
A trapizzino is a delicious pocket of pizza dough that is filled with savory ingredients. It is a cross between a pizza and a sandwich and it is quickly becoming one of the most popular street foods in Rome. The name “trapizzino” is a combination of “tramezzino” which is Italian for “sandwich” and “pizza.”
There are many reasons why you should try trapizzino. For one, it is a unique and delicious street food that you won’t find anywhere else. It is also very affordable and perfect for a quick snack or a light lunch. Plus, the variety of fillings means that there is something for everyone. Unfortunately trapizzino are made with pizza dough so you will not find a gluten-free option.
4. Porchetta
Porchetta | Image by Matt Baume on Flickr
Porchetta is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the central regions of Italy. It’s made by taking a whole pig, removing the bones and stuffing it with a delicious mix of herbs and spices, such as rosemary, garlic, fennel and salt. The pig is then slowly roasted over an open flame until it’s crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside.
The best way to eat porchetta is to get it sliced and stuffed inside a crispy roll or panino. The combination of the soft bread and the crispy pork is just divine. You can also eat porchetta on its own with a side of crispy potatoes which complement the rich and savoury flavour of the meat perfectly.
One bite of porchetta and you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish with the locals as the combination of crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat is hard to resist.
5. Gelato
Gelato | Image by jonathan anaclet on Flickr
Gelato is an Italian frozen dessert that’s similar to ice cream, but it’s made with less butterfat and has a denser, creamier texture. Gelato is typically made with milk, sugar and flavored with all sort of ingredients.
When it comes to flavors, the options are endless. Some of the most popular flavors are pistachio, (nocciola) hazelnut, stracciatella (vanilla with chocolate chips) and cioccolato (chocolate). You can also try fruit flavours like lemon, strawberry and peach which are made with fresh fruit.
You can find gelato shops all over the city, but some of the best gelaterias in Rome are Giolitti, Fatamorgana and La Romana.
First Courses: Pasta, Pasta and More Pasta!
Italians love their pasta and Romans are no exception. The typical pasta dishes in Rome are simple yet flavorful, made with fresh ingredients and served al dente (slightly under done). Here are some of the classic pasta dishes to try in Rome:
1. Carbonara
Carbonara | Image by Wow Phochiangrak on Pixabay
If you only had a chance to try one pasta dish, then should you absolutely try a carbonara. A staple of Rome, the dish is made with spaghetti, eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork jowl) and black pepper. The eggs are mixed with the cheese and pepper to make a creamy sauce, which is then combined with the cooked spaghetti and guanciale.
Carbonara is searved in many restaurants and trattorias which means it’s easy to find. You don’t have to go out of your way to find a place that serves it.
2. Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe | Image by Allagash Brewing on Flickr
Cacio e Pepe, which translates to “cheese and pepper” is another traditional pasta dish from the Lazio region. The dish consists of spaghetti (or some other type of long pasta), pecorino cheese, black pepper and a bit of starchy pasta water. The cheese and pasta water are combined to create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta. The black pepper adds a spicy kick and balances out the richness of the cheese sauce.
Cacio e Pepe has been a favourite dish of Roman locals for centuries as it is a dish that can be quickly made with ingredients that are readily available. The dish was originally made with a type of sheep’s cheese called cacio which gave the dish its name. Over time, pecorino cheese, which is similar in taste to cacio, became the cheese of choice for the dish.
3. Amatriciana
Bucatini Amatriciana | Image by stu_spivack on Wikimedia Commons
If there’s one dish that perfectly represents Italian cuisine, it’s Amatriciana. This classic pasta dish hails from the small town of Amatrice, located in the Lazio region of which Rome is its capital. The combination of spicy tomato sauce, salty pancetta and pecorino cheese makes this dish a flavorful favorite of both locals and tourists.
Amatriciana is considered a quintessential Italian dish and is often served in Italian restaurants around the world, but there is nothing like having it cooked by the people that know the dish best.
4. Pasta Alla Gricia
Pasta Alla Gricia | Image by Cayobo on Flickr
Another dish that is said to have originated in Amatrice is pasta alla gricia. This dish is made with only a handful of ingredients: guanciale (cured pork jowl), pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper and pasta (usually spaghetti or rigatoni).
This dish is a twist on cacio e pepe, as it adds a layer of flavour through the use of guanciale.
Second Courses: Meat, Fish and Vegetables
The typical second courses in Rome feature a variety of meats, fish and vegetables, all cooked to perfection and served with seasonal vegetables. Here are some of the classic second courses to try in Rome:
1. Saltimbocca alla Romana
Saltimbocca alla Romana | Image by Luigi Rosa on Flickr
Saltimbocca alla Romana is a traditional Roman dish that consists of thinly sliced veal, prosciutto and sage leaves, all wrapped together and pan-fried in butter and white wine. The name Saltimbocca means “jumps in the mouth” in Italian and it’s easy to see why once you taste this savoury dish.
While Saltimbocca alla Romana traditionally calls for veal cutlets, one can also find variations of this dish with chicken, pork, or even eggplant.
2. Abbacchio alla Scottadito
Abbacchio | Image by Wei-Duan Woo on Flickr
Abbacchio alla Scottadito are grilled lamb chops and is another centuries old Roman dish. The name “Scottadito” comes from the Italian word “scottare” which means “to burn” or “to sear.” The dish is believed to have originated in the Castelli Romani area where it was traditionally served during the spring lamb season.
The lamb chops are first seasoned with salt, pepper and rosemary and then grilled over a wood fire or hot coals which gives the lamb a distinct smoky flavor.
The dish is often served with lemon wedges to enhance the flavour of the lamb and served with a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables, making it a satisfying and hearty meal.
3. Filetti di Baccalà
Filetti di Baccalà is a seafood dish that’s a must-try for any food lover. The dish consists of cod fillets that get deep-fried to create a crispy skin on the outside but keep the fish very tender on the inside.
The fish is first salted, after which it is allowed to dry. The cod then gets deep fried and finally gets a sprinkle of salt and lemon juice which create a delicious combination of flavours.
4. Carciofi alla Romana
Carciofi alla Romana | Image by Francesca on Flickr
Carciofi alla Romana, which mean Roman-style artichokes, are a true reflection of Roman cuisine. The dish is simple yet flavorful and has become a staple in Roman cuisine.
Carciofi alla Romana are obviously made from artichokes but also have garlic, olive oil, salt, lemon juice and herbs like parsley, mint and thyme.
This dish is a great option for vegetarians who still want to experience and taste what Roman cuisine is all about.
Desserts: Sweet Treats to Satisfy Your Cravings
No meal is complete without a delicious dessert and Rome has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the typical desserts to try while in Rome:
1. Tiramisu
Tiramisu | Image by Alexis Fam on Wikimedia Commons
Tiramisu is a delicious Italian dessert that is famous around the world. It is made from layers of sponge cake, coffee and creamy mascarpone cheese.
While the classic recipe described above is outright delicious, there are many variations to try. Some variations include the use of different liqueurs, such as amaretto or Irish cream, or adding fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries to the layers.
Tiramisu is a dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed in its classic form or in one of its many variations it is a dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
2. Maritozzi
Maritozzi | Image by Peonia80 on Flickr
Another sweet treat that originated in Rome are Maritozzi. These are a fluffy and sweet roll that is perfect for breakfast, a snack or dessert. These buns are made with a dough that is enriched with eggs and butter which gives them a soft, fluffy texture.
As with most other traditions, many bakers have created their own variations, with some adding raisins, cinnamon or vanilla to the dough while others use chocolate chips or Nutella as a filling. Some Maritozzi are even topped with powdered sugar or a glaze.
3. Cannoli
Cannoli | Image by dna_xdm on Pixabay
Cannoli have been a traditional Italian dessert for centuries and they are deeply ingrained in the culinary history of Rome.
Cannoli have a crunchy and flaky shell that gets filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta cheese mixture. The combination of textures and flavours is truly heavenly and once you’ve tried a cannolo during your stay in Rome, you’ll understand why they’re so beloved by any lover of Italian cuisine.
4. Crostata di Ricotta
Crostata di Ricotta | Image by fugzu on Flickr
Our last desert is Crostata di ricotta. It is a sweet, baked tart made with a crust and filled with ricotta cheese, sugar and eggs. Sometimes other ingredients such as lemon zest, vanilla extract or chocolate are also added to the tart filling to give a particular twist.
This dessert gets its name from the Italian word “crosta” which means crust and is typically made from flour, butter, sugar and eggs.
Conclusion
Rome is a city that offers much more than just history and culture; it is a food lover’s paradise. From street food to fine dining, Rome has something for everyone. The typical food in Rome is simple yet flavorful, made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection.
Whether you’re a fan of pasta, pizza, or meat dishes, Rome will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So when in Rome don’t forget to indulge in the authentic flavours of the city’s traditional cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best food in Rome?
There are plenty of great restaurants and eateries in Rome, but some of the best food can be found in the city's trattorias and osterias. These are usually cozy, family-run establishments that serve traditional, home-cooked meals. Look for places that are packed with locals and have menus written in Italian. Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations and be wary of people which try to force you to enter their establishment as good food just sells itself.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of when dining in Rome?
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet or are gluten intolerant then you may find that your options are somewhat limited as many traditional dishes include meat, cheese or gluten. However some dishes to try are carciofi alla romana (artichokes Roman-style) or puntarelle (a type of chicory). If you have specific dietary restrictions it's always a good idea to do some research ahead of time and ask your server for advice when you're at a restaurant.
What's the best way to experience Rome's food scene?
The best way to experience Rome's food scene is to dive right into it by taking a food tour or visiting a local market like Campo de' Fiori. This way you will get to try as many different dishes as possible. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new as you might be surprised to discover a new favourite dish. Whatever you decide to try the most important thing is to just enjoy yourself.
