I awoke this morning to a text message from an old boss. I worked for her many years ago on a stressful financial team at Harvard University. I wish I could say I met this surprise text with joy, but in reality, it gave me a dose of instant anxiety. Lucky for me, she was simply asking for travel advice on Rome (she clearly remembers me well!), so to kill two birds with one stone, and because this was clearly a sign from beyond, I will write a post dedicated to my favorite places to indulge in Rome, Italy!

First of all, if you haven’t been to Rome, you may not realize how valuable a dinner reservation can be at some of the tastiest restaurants. Tourists and locals alike are competing for the best Italian food, and it should be a priority since it’s Italy after all. Before my latest trip to Rome, in late 2018, I spent an obscene amount of time narrowing down a list of good restaurants so that I could land a coveted dinner reservation. Some I had to compromise by waiting until 9:30 to eat, which may not be late for an Italian but I could barely last the wait! Thankfully, it is worth the trouble to land a spot at any one of these restaurants!

ROME FOOD:

Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina: Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

This place came recommended from several friends and trusted sources. You must book here far in advance, and it’s absolutely worth it. See photo above for proof. I recommend a counter bar seat so you can watch the expert servers at work. If you’re lucky like I was, you may even be seated next to an intriguing group of women from Milan, one of whom named Donatella. I kid you not. Book a spot here.

Flavio Al Velavevodetto: Via di Monte Testaccio, 97, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Located just south of center Rome, this is easy to get to by subway or quick taxi. Excellent for groups or family dinners and they have outdoor seating, too. Book a spot here.

Ai Tre Scalini: Via Panisperna, 251, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

This famed restaurant has the joyous and informal atmosphere of a much-adored old-fashioned pub, often with patrons spilling out onto the quiet Monti streets. Conveniently located near the Colosseum, it does a great job serving up the classics without the fussy details of some of the other Roman classic restaurants. Book at spot here.

La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali: Via della Madonna dei Monti, 9, 00184 Roma RM, Italy (closed Tuesdays) Phone: (+39) 06.67.98.643 or (+39) 328.25.76.999

This place is also located in the central but quiet / hip neighborhood of Monti. They do not take online reservations so you’ll have to call them on the phone (number above). It is a formal restaurant with white tablecloths and well-dressed couples and families. Excellent choice for a romantic dinner. I was convinced to try it after hearing the name come up several times and then discovering this gallery of photos sealed the deal.

Trattoria Da Enzo al 29: Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy (closed Sundays) Phone: (+39) 06 58 12 260 - They accept reservations only for 7.30 PM dinner slots.

I had saved the name of this restaurant and happened to walk by as I was getting hungry at lunchtime. It was a fortunate situation as it turned out to be a charming place and memorable meal! It is informal and feels like an everyday Roman cafe, in the best possible way. You will want to show up early for a walk-in lunch spot, as right after we landed a table, the restaurant totally filled up! Try the fried artichoke.

Armando al Pantheon: Salita dei Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM, Italy (closed Sundays)

Ok, I must admit that I didn’t eat here. My partner James was turned off by the fact it is located across from the Pantheon and made some unfair assumptions. Unfortunately for us, we missed out on a table as we hestitated, and later realized we made a huge mistake! Don’t be like us, get moving and book at spot here.

ROME GELATO and GRANITA:

If you’re like me, hardly a day in Italy can be spent without gelato. It’s pretty much mandatory. And on my latest trip to Italy, I learned to love the granita! If you don’t know what granita is, it’s an icy dessert, often of a classic Italian flavor like almond, pistachio, or lemon. You’ll love it.

Fatamorgana: Via dei Chiavari, 37A, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

There are a few locations of this delicious gelato shop, known for inventive flavors and a hip, young following.

Gelateria Artigianale Corona Roma: Largo Arenula, 27, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

I came here on recommendation from a good friend that they have the best almond granita in Rome. I was smitten and hope to go back one day soon!

Pica Alberto: Via della Seggiola, 12, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Old school perfection. Order a pistachio gelato and thank me later.

Come il Latte: Via Silvio Spaventa, 24/26, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Modern and amazing, this gelato shop knocked me off my dessert-loving feet! They give a couple topping options like a wafer cookie or chocolate sauce. I must say I left Rome placing this shop at the very top of my list of sweet indulgence in Italy. And there were so many sweet indulgences in Italy!

La Casa del Caffè Tazza d'Oro: Via degli Orfani, 84, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Close to the Pantheon, this cafe is busy! You should go anyway as the line moves fast. As with some other Italian cafes, first wait in line to order your drink from the cashier. They then give you a ticket for the barista. Order the granita di caffe (coffee granita). Stand at the counter to enjoy, as sitting costs extra.