Eat near Rome’s most famous monuments 

Your culinary journey: Where to eat near Rome’s most famous monuments 🏛️ 

One of the top delights you’ll enjoy during a trip to Rome, other than marveling at its centuries-old wonders, is trying the exquisite Italian cuisine in restaurants next door to these landmarks.

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#1 Best restaurants next to the Pantheon 

Welcome to the heart of Rome, where the grandeur of Italy’s monuments and landmarks is simply breathtaking. And guess what? The Pantheon, with its colossal presence, is an absolute sight to behold. But there’s more… Brace yourself for a delicious detour because we’re about to reveal the best restaurants near the Pantheon that will blow your mind. 

Let’s start with a real gem called Armando al Pantheon. This family-run trattoria has been dishing up goodness to locals and travelers since 1961. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a cozy, homey atmosphere and traditional decor that screams authentic Roman dining. Now, get ready for some serious flavor bombs. Their spaghetti alla carbonara and the saltimbocca are pure culinary magic. And what better way to wash it all down than with a glass of robust Italian wine? 

Now, if seafood is your jam, you need to visit La Rosetta. Even though Rome isn’t right on the coast, these folks bring the ocean to your plate. They pride themselves on serving up the freshest catches from the nearby Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas, celebrating Italy’s love affair with seafood.  

_{😎 MEININGER Hotels tip: the Pantheon Dough Roller}  

And here’s a little secret tip just for you: the Pantheon has something sweet up its sleeve. Get ready for a sugary spectacle at the Pantheon’s dough roller. Find Pasticceria De Bellis, a cozy pastry shop that’s famous for its irresistible pastries and try the star of the show: their sugar-dusted, cream-filled cannoncini.  

#2 Dine near the iconic Trevi Fountain

Wondering where to eat near Rome’s most famous monuments? For the best pizza near the Trevi Fountain, run to Pizzeria da Baffetto. With its thin, crispy crust topped with locally sourced ingredients, this pizzeria’s offerings are as legendary as the monument itself. With an extensive menu and good selection of local and regional wines, Ristorante Angelina is a casual and budget-friendly choice to dine near the Trevi Fountain. And did anyone say “cocktail bar”? Salotto 42 is an amazing place for sipping cocktails while admiring its stylish local crowd.  

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better…this MEININGER article brings together the best street food spots in Rome (without breaking the bank!).

#3 Grab a bite next to the Colosseum 

As for the Rome restaurants near the Colosseum, the choices are lovely. Aroma Restaurant gives you a Michelin-starred dining experience as well as a panoramic view of the Colosseum. Here, Chef Giuseppe Di Iorio showcases a menu inspired by traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. 

Just a stone’s throw away from the Colosseum, you’ll find Trattoria Monti. This family-owned restaurant is famous for its tortello stuffed with ricotta and lemon zest, a dish that screams comfort and simplicity, which are hallmarks of Roman cuisine. 

Pizzeria Li Rioni will be your authentic Roman neighborhood pizzeria experience. Make sure to start with some delicious fritti (fried treats). 

#4 Eat close to the Spanish Steps 

Meanwhile, if you’re seeking vegan options, the opulent neighborhood around the Spanish Steps houses Il Margutta, Rome’s first vegetarian restaurant established in 1979. Today, it serves you a blend of vegetarian and vegan dishes with an organic wine list. For more vegan food options, why not have a look at our article on the best vegan restaurants in Rome?

Pastificio Guerra, a historic pasta house, serves a quick and tasty lunch in between sightseeing. They only make two pasta dishes per day, and you’ll have to line up to grab one, but it’s totally worth it (and the line moves quickly).  

#5 Snack around the Campo de’Fiori Market 

Your trip to Rome is never complete without visiting the vibrant Campo de’ Fiori market area. Here, Roscioli, an eclectic food venue that’s part deli, part restaurant, offers you the best of Italian meats, cheeses, and wines. You will love their legendary carbonara and cacio e pepe. At Emma, you can indulge in real cucina Romana and delicious roman-style pizza in a modern setting with outdoor seating. In the mood for burgers? Head to Open Baladin for some of Rome’s best burgers. Prized meat and bread buns, hand flavored chips and one of the city’s largest selections of craft beer. Yum!

Campo de’ Fiori is only one of the numerous markets Rome has to offer. Check out our carefully curated article of the best markets in Rome right here! 🙌

#6 Eat & see St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican 

If you want to eat near Rome’s monuments, make sure you also try Osteria delle Commari which offer some of the best Roman cuisine with a stunning view of St. Peter’s dome. The oxtail stew is a local favorite and is perfect for a hearty lunch after exploring the nearby monuments. Open all day for lunch, dinner, and snacks, La Zanzara has a full menu from sandwiches and salads to seafood, meat and pasta. At aperitivo time, try all the snacks and canapés served with your cocktails. Il Sorpasso: another all-day dining and a locals’ hotspot. From cheese and charcuterie boards to pasta and prime cuts of meat, Il Sorpasso is more than just a wine bar. Plus, their cocktails are one-of-a-kind!  

#7 Cocktails & food in Piazza Navona 🍸 

Made famous for its scenes with Julia Roberts, in “Eat, Pray, Love”, Santa Lucia is homestyle cooking with all the classics; plus, a gorgeous garden terrace you get to enjoy in the warmer months. 

And remember to pay a visit to Jerry Thomas Project, listed as one of the best bars in the world. This speakeasy makes exquisite cocktails, prepared by a bar staff dressed in 1920s get-up. You must book in advance to get the entry password. Sounds pretty cool, right? 

Summing up…  

When it comes to dining near Rome’s most famous monuments, remember that it’s more than a food experience. It’s about getting to know the Roman lifestyle, ambiance, conversations, and heritage… served on your plate. Whether you’re munching on a slice of pizza while admiring the Trevi Fountain, feasting on fresh seafood near the Pantheon, or enjoying a fine dining experience with the Colosseum as your backdrop, Rome’s culinary scene is just as diverse and remarkable as its famous monuments!