Where to eat in Central Rome (while avoiding the tourist traps)

Although still far from the best season to enjoy Rome — mid-summer, when the streets can be almost deserted — it is never too early to take stock of good dining options in a minefield like the heart of the historic center. Specifically, the area known as the Tridente, which stretches from Piazza del Popolo along the three historic streets of via del Corso, via del Babuino, and via di Ripetta.

Created in the sixteenth century as an urban project commissioned by the popes to welcome pilgrims and travelers, the Tridente was for centuries the city’s elegant drawing room, among noble palaces, artists’ workshops, and literary cafés. Today it is one of the liveliest areas of the historic center, yet tricky for those who love good food and drink. Among the many establishments in the area, we have tried to make a sensible and diverse selection of the best spots where tourist traps are nonexistent. Here are some, ranging from fine dining and classic restaurants to solid trattorie, award-winning pizzerias, with a few major names currently under restyling (La Campana and Imàgo at the Hotel Hassler).

Where to eat in central Rome

Alfredo alla Scrofa

It's not just the famous fettuccine Alfredo — creamed at the table with alpine butter and 20-month-aged Parmigiano — that has made this restaurant world-famous: here you also find solid Roman and Italian cuisine, paired with a well-stocked wine cellar. The setting is classic, enhanced by vintage photos that tell a long story. Recently, the cellar has also provided an additional space for tastings and special events.

Alfredo alla Scrofa – via della Scrofa, 104/A – 06 68806163 – alfredoallascrofa.com

Armando al Pantheon

Booking can be a challenge, but even during peak times this solid establishment just steps from the Pantheon remains a guarantee, since 1961. Thanks to the Gargioli family, who have been running an authentic story of traditional Roman cuisine for three generations, substantial and genuine. The menu, slightly lighter at lunch, offers classic first courses (the amatriciana is good, though the guanciale could be crispier), followed by rigatoni with pajata and fettuccine with chicken offal. Excellent coratella served in a sandwich with chicory, and tripe. Several vegetarian dishes are also available. The wine list is extensive, thoughtfully curated with regional selections. Service is always courteous and attentive.

Armando al Pantheon – salita de’ Crescenzi, 31 – 06 68803034 – armandoalpantheon.it

Baccano

A safe harbor just a few steps from the Trevi Fountain. Rare to find with this level of quality and a menu catering to various tastes and needs. Open from lunch until after dinner, Baccano is a contemporary bistro, a versatile space that transports guests to an international dimension reminiscent of some New York establishments (interiors inspired by Balthazar) and the atmosphere of Parisian bistros. Excellent for tasting Italian and Spanish hams, French cheeses, foie gras, or oysters (available in various types), perhaps at the counter for a cosmopolitan aperitif. Notable cocktail offerings and a wine list spanning Italy, France, Chile, and South Africa.

Baccano – via delle Muratte, 23 – 06 69941166 – baccanoroma.com

Buccone Vini e Olii

A former carriage depot, oil and wine shop since the late 19th century, then an osteria, today an enoteca with serving and retail managed by Paolo Trimani, cousin of the original Buccone family. Authentic, relaxed, and full of charm, with early 20th-century furnishings, an antique counter, high coffered ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling shelves full of Italian and international bottles—many available by the glass. Dishes include oysters, carpaccio, charcuterie, cheeses, as well as cooked dishes like meatballs and soups. A place that becomes addictive, not just for the offerings but for the atmosphere of a traditional wine bar.

Buccone Vini e Olii – via di Ripetta, 19 – 06 3612154 – Instagram

Il Gabriello

Solid and genuine cuisine, both seafood and meat, with quality ingredients; warm atmosphere with brick arches and soft lighting: the formula of the Conti family for four generations. Excellent raw fish in tartare or carpaccio, seasonal porcini fettuccine, or lamb chops. Homemade bread and desserts, with a good wine selection in line with the cuisine.

Il Gabriello – via Vittoria, 51 – 06 69940810 – ristoranteilgabriello.it

Hamasei

Spacious, elegant, and detail-oriented, this historic restaurant occupies a central location. Sit at the sushi bar with its polished wooden counter or at a table for a relaxed, noteworthy meal. Thought and care are evident in both mise en place and menu, which includes a lunch menu and three kaiseki tasting menus. Fish is always fresh according to the market. Sushi, popular dishes like soba noodles, and various cooking methods (fried, teppanyaki, cast-iron) show mastery of ingredients. Experience best enjoyed with “mix” platters of nigiri, makimono, and uramaki to share. Service is quick, with well-paired beverages.

Hamasei – via della Mercede, 35 – 06 6792134 – roma-hamasei.com

Il Marchese

Owned by Onofrio del Grillo (famously portrayed by Alberto Sordi), this pleasant venue combines Roman cuisine with international appeal. Open from 12:30 to late, offering drinks from cocktails to wines, with an extensive collection of amari. Traditional Roman dishes with occasional surprises, including crocchetta di bollito, first courses (cacio e pepe, carbonara, gricia, amatriciana), carpaccio with red fruits, marinated melon with mint and coconut leche de tigre, and duck ragù pappardelle with orange and rosemary crumble.

Il Marchese – via di Ripetta, 162 – 06 90218872 – ilmarcheseroma.it

Matricianella

Near Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina, a historic restaurant opened in 1957, run by the Lo Bianco brothers since 1995. True traditional cuisine with a broad wine selection. Seasonal variations follow the menu: carciofo alla giudia, meatball bollito, tonnarelli cacio e pepe, rigatoni with pajata, lamb chops, coda alla vaccinara. Desserts are worthwhile. Attentive and friendly service, street tables available, reservations recommended.

Matricianella – via del Leone, 2 – 06 6832100 – matricianella.it

Miao Miao Kebab

Another venture by chefs Miocchi and Lo Iudice of Retrobottega, focusing on Turkish-inspired takeout. Hummus, falafel, chicken or lamb skewers, vegetables, spices, and herbs. Sandwiches include lamb or vegetarian kofte kebabs. Must-try: beef Lahmacun. Drinks: soft drinks and craft beers.

Miao Miao Kebab – via della Stelletta, 4/a – miaomiaokebab.com

Piccolo Buco

Near the Trevi Fountain, a historic spot for locals and tourists. Luca Issa serves Neapolitan pizza with a high, airy crust, light dough, and rich flavor. Highly recommended: sausage, steccata, and zucchini pizza with high-quality ingredients, many Slow Food Presidium certified. Extra virgin olive oil used for finishing. Friendly service; expect a line (no reservations).

Piccolo Buco – via del Lavatore, 91 – 06 69380163 – pizzeriapiccolobuco.it

La Quercia Osteria Monteforte

Charming setting, timeless atmosphere inside and out, with exposed beams, eclectic tables, and modern art. Ingredients are carefully sourced from top-quality suppliers. Local dishes include carbonara, amatriciana, and regional specialties. Desserts highly recommended. Courteous staff assist with wine selection. Wine cellar aligns with cuisine.

La Quercia Osteria Monteforte – p.zza della Quercia, 23 – 06 68300932 – osterialaquercia.com

Retrobottega

Ten years of gastronomic revolution by Alessandro Miocchi and Giuseppe Lo Iudice, offering surprising and boundary-pushing dishes. Bar and restaurant, wine cellar and kitchen ensure a satisfying, ever-changing experience. Dishes include tomato and fruit gazpacho, katsusando with zucchini and 18-month Parmigiano, cold rigatoni with clams, cannolicchi, and green tomatoes, roasted duck breast with peach salad. Social tables, low lighting, convivial but cool atmosphere. Agile service, rich wine list.

Retrobottega – via d’Ascanio, 26/A – 380 6914759 – retro-bottega.com

Vico Pizza & Wine

Soft Neapolitan pizza with a light crust, precise cooking, near the Pantheon. Tasting menus of 5–7 courses, traditional and creative pizzas, focaccia for sharing. Recommended: “Volevo essere una crudo e rucola” with red datterino cream, Norcia prosciutto, Andria stracciatella, arugula coulis, parmesan chips, EVO oil. Notable fried foods and desserts. High-quality wine cellar and cocktails. Welcoming service.

Vico Pizza & Wine – p.zza Rondanini, 47 – 06 87809501 – vicopizzaandwine.com

Zuma

The London-based brand is now globally established. In Rome, it boasts an exclusive location in Palazzo Fendi, near Piazza di Spagna. Rooftop offers panoramic views and cocktails, while the lower floor hosts Japanese cuisine: sashimi, nigiri, maki, tataki, and robata-grilled meat, fish, and vegetables. Brunch and business lunch available. Interesting wine and sake list.

Zuma – via della Fontanella di Borghese, 48 – 06 99266622 – zumarestaurant.com