Rome, the Eternal City, is not just a treasure trove of history and culture, but also a paradise for food lovers. With its rich culinary traditions that date back centuries, Rome offers a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring the local cuisine is a must. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ten best foods and dishes to eat in Rome in 2024, from timeless classics to contemporary favorites.
1. Cacio e Pepe
One of Rome’s most iconic dishes, Cacio e Pepe is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. Made with just three ingredients—pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta—this dish is a testament to the beauty of minimalism in Italian cooking. The creamy, peppery sauce clings to the pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. While traditionally made with tonnarelli pasta, you’ll also find variations using spaghetti or rigatoni.
2. Carbonara
No visit to Rome is complete without tasting Carbonara. This dish, often imitated but rarely perfected outside of Italy, consists of pasta (typically spaghetti or rigatoni), guanciale (cured pork cheek), eggs, pecorino Romano, and black pepper. The key to a perfect Carbonara lies in the timing—cooking the eggs just enough to create a creamy sauce without scrambling them. The combination of salty guanciale and sharp pecorino makes this a must-try.
3. Amatriciana
Amatriciana is a dish with deep roots in the Lazio region, and it’s a favorite in Roman trattorias. Traditionally made with guanciale, tomato sauce, pecorino Romano, and chili flakes, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. It’s usually served with bucatini pasta, which has a hole running through the center, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta inside and out. Pair it with a glass of local red wine for a truly Roman experience.
4. Supplì
Supplì are Rome’s answer to arancini, the famous Sicilian rice balls. These deep-fried, breaded snacks are filled with a mixture of risotto rice, tomato sauce, and mozzarella. The mozzarella becomes molten during frying, giving supplì their characteristic gooey center. Often enjoyed as a street food or an appetizer, supplì are best eaten hot and fresh from a local friggitoria (fry shop).
5. Carciofi alla Romana
Artichokes are a beloved ingredient in Roman cuisine, and Carciofi alla Romana (Roman-style artichokes) is a dish that showcases their flavor. The artichokes are cleaned, stuffed with a mixture of garlic, mint, and parsley, then braised in olive oil and white wine until tender. The result is a delicate, fragrant dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the artichokes. It’s a springtime favorite, best enjoyed in Rome’s traditional trattorias.
6. Saltimbocca alla Romana
Saltimbocca alla Romana is a classic Roman dish that perfectly blends meat and herbs. The dish consists of thin slices of veal, topped with prosciutto and sage, and cooked in a white wine and butter sauce. The name “saltimbocca” means “jumps in the mouth,” and that’s exactly what this dish does—each bite is bursting with flavor. It’s a staple on the menus of many Roman restaurants, and for good reason.
7. Gnocchi alla Romana
Unlike the potato-based gnocchi you might be familiar with, Gnocchi alla Romana are made from semolina flour. These soft, pillowy disks are baked with butter and Parmesan cheese until golden and crispy on the outside, yet tender on the inside. They’re often served as a primi piatti (first course) and are especially popular on Thursdays, which is traditionally gnocchi day in Rome.
8. Trippa alla Romana
Trippa alla Romana is a dish for the adventurous eater. This traditional Roman dish features tripe (the stomach lining of a cow) cooked in a rich tomato sauce with mint, pecorino Romano, and sometimes a touch of chili. The tripe is slow-cooked until it’s tender and flavorful, absorbing the robust flavors of the sauce. While it might not be to everyone’s taste, it’s a dish that reflects Rome’s history of making the most of every part of the animal.
9. Maritozzi
Maritozzi are sweet, cream-filled buns that are a beloved Roman breakfast treat. These soft, brioche-like buns are traditionally filled with whipped cream, though modern variations might include custard or chocolate. They’re typically enjoyed with a cappuccino in the morning, but can also be found as an indulgent snack throughout the day. Maritozzi are a reminder that Italian cuisine isn’t just about savory dishes—it also has a sweet side worth exploring.
10. Pizza al Taglio
Finally, no culinary tour of Rome would be complete without mentioning Pizza al Taglio, or pizza by the slice. Unlike the round pizzas served in restaurants, Pizza al Taglio is baked in large rectangular trays and sold by weight. The variety of toppings is endless, from classic margherita to more inventive combinations like zucchini flowers and anchovies. It’s a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a quick meal while exploring the city.
Conclusion
Rome’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and culture, offering a wide range of flavors and textures that cater to every palate. From the creamy comfort of Cacio e Pepe to the sweet indulgence of Maritozzi, the Eternal City has something for everyone. As you explore Rome in 2024, make sure to sample these ten must-try foods and dishes for a truly authentic Roman experience. Buon appetito!
