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Where to Eat in Rome

Where simplicity is the point

Rome doesn't innovate — it perfects. Four pastas. A few cuts of meat. Seasonal vegetables done right. The rules exist because they work. Cacio e pepe: cheese, pepper, pasta water. That's it. That's transcendence.

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Neighborhoods to Know

Trastevere

Vibe: Charming, touristy, still has gems

Best for: Evening strolls, classic Roman, aperitivo

Testaccio

Vibe: Working class roots, foodie pilgrimage

Best for: Traditional Roman, offal, market lunch

Centro Storico

Vibe: Tourist central, avoid the obvious

Best for: Coffee standing at the bar, gelato walks

Pigneto

Vibe: Hip, local, off the tourist path

Best for: Natural wine, young chef spots

San Lorenzo

Vibe: Student area, cheap eats, lively

Best for: Budget-friendly, late night, casual

What to Eat

The Four Pastas

Cacio e pepe, carbonara, amatriciana, gricia. Master these, know Rome.

Must try: Cacio e pepe done properly — simple, perfect

Pizza al Taglio

Roman-style: rectangular, sold by weight, crispy base, varied toppings.

Must try: Potato and rosemary slice, warm from the oven

Supplì

Fried rice balls with mozzarella center. Street food perfection.

Must try: Supplì al telefono — the cheese should stretch

Aperitivo

Pre-dinner drinks with snacks. The Italian happy hour ritual.

Must try: Aperol spritz with free snacks at a neighborhood bar

Local Tips

  • →Never order fettuccine alfredo. It doesn't exist here.
  • →Lunch is often the better meal at trattorias — same food, half the crowd
  • →Coffee is drunk standing at the bar. Sitting costs more.
  • →Restaurants near major monuments are tourist traps. Walk 5 minutes away.
  • →Carbonara has guanciale and egg. No cream. Ever.

When to Eat

Breakfast

7-9am

Cornetto and cappuccino at the bar, standing

Lunch

1-2:30pm

This is a full meal — embrace it

Aperitivo

6-8pm

Drinks and snacks, don't skip this

Dinner

8:30-10pm

Romans eat late. Respect the rhythm.

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