10/05/2026
9 Things to Eat in Rome at Least Once 🇮🇹
Rome is one of those cities where the food can become as memorable as the monuments. Some dishes are centuries old, some are street-food classics, and others are so tied to everyday Roman life that leaving without trying them feels almost wrong.
1. Carbonara
One of Rome’s great pasta dishes, made with egg, Pecorino Romano, guanciale and black pepper. No cream is needed when it is made properly.
2. Cacio e Pepe
Pasta, Pecorino Romano and black pepper. It sounds simple, but getting that silky sauce right is exactly what makes a great version special.
3. Amatriciana
Tomato, guanciale and Pecorino Romano. Its roots are connected to Amatrice in Lazio, but today it is firmly part of Rome’s classic trattoria tradition.
4. Pizza al Taglio
Roman pizza sold by weight and cut with scissors. You choose how much you want, making it perfect for a quick lunch or snack while walking around the city.
5. Supplì
Crispy fried rice croquettes, usually filled with tomato-seasoned rice and a melting mozzarella centre. One of the easiest Roman street foods to become addicted to.
6. Porchetta
Herb-seasoned roast pork, sliced and stuffed into bread. The most famous tradition comes from Ariccia, just outside Rome, but you will find excellent porchetta sandwiches all over the city.
7. Carciofi alla Romana
Artichokes slowly cooked with olive oil, garlic, parsley and mint until incredibly tender. If you visit during artichoke season, this is one dish I would actively look for.
8. Maritozzo
A soft Roman sweet bun split open and filled generously with whipped cream. Traditionally eaten for breakfast, although there is absolutely no rule saying you cannot have one in the afternoon.
9. Gelato
Rome has countless gelaterie, but look for places making gelato in small batches with natural-looking colours rather than mountains of brightly coloured gelato piled high above the containers.
The best way to eat in Rome is not to try everything in one meal. Grab a supplì while walking, stop for pizza al taglio at lunch, order one of the classic pastas at a trattoria, then finish the day with a maritozzo or gelato.
Save this for your next trip to Rome — because you are going to want this list when hunger hits.
