When traveling with The Traveling Professor’s Small Group Tours of Italy, one of the best parts of every day in Rome is deciding where to eat. From elegant ristorantes near the Opera House to simple pizza and porchetta sandwiches that locals line up for, Rome has something for everyone. Here are six of our favorite spots to enjoy authentic Roman and Italian cuisine.
Ristorante Target – Elegant Dining at Affordable Prices
Located near the Rome Opera House, Ristorante Target combines refined ambiance with surprisingly reasonable prices. It’s an elegant restaurant with crisp white tablecloths, polished service, and beautifully presented dishes that highlight Roman and Italian traditions. Locals and visitors alike love the atmosphere despite Rick Steves recommending it. Expect excellent pasta, seafood, and a wine list that won’t break the budget.
Ristorante del Giglio – Classic Tuscany Meets Rome
Just steps from the Opera House, Ristorante del Giglio is known for its timeless charm. The white-jacket waiters serve generous portions of Tuscan-influenced Italian fare — think rich pasta dishes, tender veal, and beautifully grilled seafood. The dining room feels like a step back in time, elegant yet relaxed, making it a wonderful spot for a long, leisurely dinner with a glass of Chianti.
Ristorante da Pancrazio – Dining Where History Lives
Restaurant da Pancrazio sits right next to Campo de’ Fiori, one of the liveliest piazzas in Rome. It’s not just famous for its delicious Italian food — it’s also built over the ruins of Pompey’s Theater, where Julius Caesar was assassinated. The restaurant is a favorite for its rich pasta dishes, warm service, and romantic cellar dining rooms. And yes, Julia Roberts ate here while filming “Eat, Pray, Love.”
Ristorante alla Rampa – A Local Favorite by the Spanish Steps
After exploring the Spanish Steps, there’s no better place to rest your feet than Ristorante alla Rampa. It’s casual, busy, and always full of energy. While it may not win culinary awards, it’s one of those quintessential Roman experiences we love — great people-watching, generous portions, and a big outdoor terrace perfect for soaking up the atmosphere.
Il Forno – The Best Pizza in Italy
Five words: The Best Pizza in Italy. Located at the top of Campo de’ Fiori, Il Forno is a small bakery-style pizza shop where you buy by weight. Locals drop by for hot slices of perfectly baked pizza — crispy on the bottom, airy on top, and full of flavor. Grab a piece, stand at the counter, and enjoy one of the simplest but most satisfying meals in Rome. No website, no fuss — just incredible pizza.
Er Buchetto – The Legendary Porchetta Sandwich
Near Termini Station, you’ll find a tiny shop with a line out the door. That’s Er Buchetto, famous for its porchetta sandwiches — crispy, juicy, savory roast pork served in fresh bread. It’s not fancy, it’s not expensive, and it’s pure Roman perfection. Er Buchetto proves that some of the best meals in Italy come from the simplest places.
Enjoy Rome Like a Local
When you travel with Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor, we make sure you experience Italy through its food, culture, and hidden gems. From elegant dining rooms to standing-room-only sandwich shops, these restaurants represent everything we love about Rome — passion, history, and flavor.
For more travel inspiration, see our Italy Small Group Tours and explore Rome, Florence, and Venice the Traveling Professor way.