Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
Roman cuisine is a delicious celebration of authentic flavors and time-honored recipes that have endured for centuries. Here's a taste of the dishes and flavors you shouldn't miss when indulging in local food in Rome:
Pasta Carbonara: An iconic Roman dish, pasta carbonara is an indulgent delight that combines pasta, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. The creaminess and flavor of this recipe will captivate your taste buds.
Cacio e Pepe: This simple and delightful dish highlights Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the al dente pasta.
Supplì: These rice croquettes stuffed with mozzarella cheese are fried until crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. They're a popular appetizer in Rome and are served in many trattorias.
Saltimbocca alla Romana: This classic dish features tender veal cutlets, prosciutto, sage, and white wine. The result is a burst of flavors that pays homage to Roman culinary tradition.
Bucatini all'Amatriciana: Amatriciana sauce, made with pancetta, tomato, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper, is served over bucatini, a spaghetti-like pasta. It's a simple yet flavor-packed dish.
Trippa alla Romana: This dish consists of slow-cooked beef tripe in an aromatic tomato sauce. While it's not for everyone, it's a favorite among lovers of authentic Roman cuisine.
Roman Pizza: Pizza al taglio is a Roman variation of pizza, typically rectangular and sold by weight. You can choose from a variety of toppings, and it's a delicious and quick option to satisfy your appetite.
Carciofi alla Romana: Roman artichokes are cooked with garlic, mint, olive oil, and white wine to create a tender and flavorful dish. This is a springtime specialty you shouldn't miss.
Gelato: There's no better way to conclude a Roman meal than with Italian gelato. Rome's gelaterias offer a wide range of flavors, from classics like pistachio and stracciatella to more innovative choices.
Espresso Coffee: Accompany your meals with an espresso, a beverage taken seriously in Rome. Enjoy the intensity and quality of authentic Italian coffee.
Roman cuisine is a sensory feast, where high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes come together to create unforgettable dishes. Exploring local food in Rome is a culinary experience that immerses you in the city's rich gastronomic tradition.